Chad McQueen, 'Karate Kid' Star and Son of Steve McQueen, Dead at 63

Chad McQueen , the son of the late Steve McQueen who followed in his father’s footsteps and developed an acting career of his own, has died. He was 63.

The Karate Kid star’s death on Wednesday, Sept. 11, was reported by TMZ . Arthur Barens , an attorney for the actor, told the publication on Thursday, Sept. 12, that Chad died of organ failure, which was reportedly brought on by a recent injury, while at his home in Palm Desert, Calif.

Chad’s family confirmed the news of his passing in an Instagram post on Thursday, Sept. 12.

“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 the statement signed by his wife, Jeanie Galbraith , and their children, Chase and Madison .

“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,” the statement, which was posted alongside a photo of Chad driving, continued. “He passed his passion, knowledge and dedication down to us and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfathers as well.”

The McQueen family’s statement concluded with a request for privacy “as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.”

Chad was born Chadwick Steven McQueen on Dec. 28, 1960, as the youngest of two children that his father shared with actress and dancer Neile Adams . He adopted his father’s interest in racing cars and acting, and scored a role in 1984’s The Karate Kid . He played Dutch in the film and reprised his role in the sequel two years later.

Chad was with his wife, children and Barens at the time of his death, according to TMZ . In addition to his two children with Galbraith, Chad also shared a son with ex-wife Stacey Toten , Vampire Diaries actor Steven R. McQueen .

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