Chad McQueen, Karate Kid Star and Son of Steve McQueen, Dies at 63 from Organ Failure

Chad McQueen, known for his role in the original Karate Kid film, has passed away at the age of 63. He died at his home in Palm Desert, California, from organ failure, as confirmed by his longtime attorney, Arthur Barens.

The Circumstances Surrounding Chad McQueen's Death

Chad McQueen's passing was attributed to organ failure, a condition that had progressively worsened over the years due to a serious injury he endured earlier in his life. His attorney revealed that McQueen was at home when he died, surrounded by his family, including his children and wife, Jeanie, during his final moments.

Family's Statement on Chad McQueen's Legacy

In a heartfelt statement to Variety, Chad McQueen's family expressed their sorrow, saying, "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our father, Chad McQueen." They described his life as a devoted father and a partner to their mother, emphasizing the love and dedication he exemplified. They mentioned his passion for racing, which honored his father's legacy and highlighted the values he imparted to them. The family affirmed their commitment to continue both Chad's and his grandfather's legacy while requesting privacy during this challenging time.

Chad McQueen's Career in the Spotlight

Chad McQueen gained fame for his role as Dutch in the original 1984 Karate Kid movie, later reprising his character in The Karate Kid Part II in 1986. Dutch was noted as one of the more aggressive members of the Cobra Kai dojo. Despite his early success, McQueen did not join the cast of the acclaimed sequel series Cobra Kai, which premiered on YouTube Red and later moved to Netflix. Reports in 2019 indicated that McQueen was approached to return as Dutch, but he was unable to do so due to scheduling conflicts, leading to his character being written as incarcerated, leaving the door open for a potential return.

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