Chad McQueen has died at the age of 63.
The actor, who played Dutch in The Karate Kid films, died on Wednesday (September 12) at his ranch in Palm Desert, California. His heartbroken family confirmed his passing in an emotional tribute, where they hailed him as a “loving father”.
They told Variety: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our father, Chad McQueen. His remarkable journey as a loving father to us, along with his unwavering commitment to our mother, truly exemplified a life filled with love and dedication.
READ MORE: Star Wars and Lion King icon James Earl Jones dies aged 93 as tributes pour in
Click for more brilliant Daily Star showbiz stories
They also praised how he honoured the legacy of his father, legendary actor and racing driver Steve McQueen. They continued: “His passion for racing not only highlighted his exceptional talent but also served as a way to honor his father’s legacy, a testament to the values instilled in him.
(Image: No credit)
“He passed his passion, knowledge and dedication down to us, and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfather’s as well. As a family, we need to navigate this difficult time, and we kindly ask for privacy as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.
According to TMZ, he died as a result of organ failure which came following a racing injury a few years ago. The outlet claimed he was with his wife Jeanie Galbraith, his two children Chase McQueen and Madison McQueen and his attorney when he died.
(Image: Getty Images)
Chad was a well-known actor, film producer, professional race-car driver and martial artist. His most famous role came when he played Dutch in Karate Kid (1984) and The Karate Kid Part II (1986).
Dutch was a member of the Cobra Kai gang and he became iconic in the 1980s. He encouraged Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) to beat up Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) during the Halloween dance scene.
(Image: Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
In the second series of the TV series Cobra Kai, it’s revealed that Dutch was thrown behind bars. There were whispers of McQueen appearing int he show but it’s believed scheduling issues prevented it.
Chad appeared in movies such as Red Line (1995) and New York Cop (1993). He had a successful auto racing career, competing in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
He founded McQueen Racing, a company that develops high-performance cars and motorbikes. In 2006, he suffered a near-fatal crash while practicing for the Daytona International Speedway Rolex 24 event.
Want all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
