Former actor Chad McQueen has died at the age of 63.

Chad McQueen, who played Dutch in the “Karate Kid” film franchise, died at his ranch in Palm Desert, California.

Chad McQueen attended Madison McQueen’s baby shower at Bighorn Golf Club in Palm Desert, California, on March 8, 2023 | Source: Getty Images.

According to his longtime attorney, Arthur Barens, Chad died on Wednesday, September 13, 2024, from organ failure. The “Firepower” actor passed away flanked by his children, life partner, and attorney.

According to insiders, Chad had an accident a few years ago, which resulted in slow organ failure and ultimately led to his death.

Chad was the father of Steven, Chase, and Madison McQueen. Steven sent a poignant tribute on Instagram after their father died.
He said, “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.”

On March 8, 2023, Chad and Madison McQueen attended Madison McQueen’s baby shower at Bighorn Golf Club in Palm Desert, California. | Source: Getty Images
Steven claimed that his father, a professional racecar driver, had a significant impact on his life. His racing enthusiasm not only highlighted his exceptional skiing abilities but also paid homage to his father’s legacy. This passion represented Chad McQueen’s strongly held principles.
Steven went on: “He passed his passion, knowledge, and dedication down to us, and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfathers as well [sic].”
Steven stated that the family is going through a difficult time and politely requested privacy while recognizing and cherishing his wonderful life.
As the family grieved Chad, users reacted to Steven’s message with outpourings of love and prayers. Someone expressed, “We will always miss Chad.” Love you guys,” one admirer said, while another added, “Truly heartbroken.” “He was a kind and caring gentleman.”

Another passionate response was, “Oh my God.” I just awoke to this dreadful and tragic news. I feel like I’ve lost a part of my own family. I’m grateful to have met him and think of the McQueen family. “Mate, rest in peace.”

Chad is most known for his role as Dutch in “Karate Kid,” which he again played in the 1986 sequel “Karate Kid II.” Chad was the only son of Steve McQueen, a famous actor. He looked up to his father, who taught him to ride motorcycles when he was just six years old.

“I first started racing when I was nine. It was a chance for us to interact and spend weekends together by racing motorcycles rather than kicking the ball around. “I looked up to my father and aspired to be as fast as him,” Chad shared.
Chad expressed his enjoyment of racetrack racing, despite its danger and the potential for injuries or fatalities. “Film and motorsports always seemed to attract me more,” the filmmaker said.

As a professional racer, Chad competed in a variety of events, including the Baja 1000 and Motocross. He earned early success by winning the World Mini Grand Prix at the age of 12.

Chad was involved in a major accident in 2006 while practicing in the Tafel Racing Porsche GT3 for a Grand Am GT Class race.

Another car lost control and hit him. The situation was chaotic, and it took many hours to pull him from the wreckage. Chad had serious injuries, including a badly damaged leg and multiple broken vertebrae.

After many procedures and several weeks in the hospital, Chad returned to his Southern California home to begin his long road to recovery.
His unshakeable spirit helped him recuperate. Realizing a second chance at life, Chad dedicated his entire time to physical therapy.

While the consequences of the event never completely subsided, his rehabilitation was extremely inspirational. His intelligence remained razor-sharp. He trekked many miles every day, swam, rode his bike, and drove. He even discussed the prospect of racing again.

The founder of McQueen Racing died, but his followers and son, who has spoken about its life-changing impact, continue his legacy.