Chad McQueen, ‘The Karate Kid’ Star and Steve McQueen’s Son, Dead at 63

Steve McQueen's Son Chad, ‘Karate Kid,’ ‘Northern Exposure’ Actor

Chad McQueen, the actor son of Steve McQueen and Neile Adams and a star of the 1984 film The Karate Kid, has passed away at age 63. Born in Los Angeles in 1960, McQueen began his acting career as a child, appearing in small roles in his father's films Bullitt and Papillon. He landed his breakout role in 1984 as Dutch in The Karate Kid, the classic martial arts film starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita. After The Karate Kid, McQueen continued to act in films and television throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including roles in The Blob (1988), Northern Exposure (1990-1995), and Fire in the Sky (1993). McQueen's death was confirmed by his manager, Jeff Alford, who said the actor died in Billings, Montana, on Saturday surrounded by his family. No cause of death has been released. In a statement, Alford said, "Chad was a charming, funny, and kind-hearted man who will be greatly missed." "Chad's passion for life was evident in everything he did, from his acting to his love of the outdoors," Alford added. "He always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye." McQueen is survived by his wife, Shela, and their two children, Madison and Chase.

Chad McQueen Remembered by Fans and Colleagues

The news of Chad McQueen's death has been met with sadness by fans and colleagues alike. "I'm so sad to hear about the passing of Chad McQueen," said Ralph Macchio, who starred with McQueen in The Karate Kid. "He was a talented actor and a wonderful person. My thoughts are with his family and friends." "Chad was a great friend and colleague," said John Rhys-Davies, who starred with McQueen in Fire in the Sky. "He was always full of life and laughter. He will be deeply missed." Fans have also taken to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of Chad McQueen. "Chad McQueen was a great actor and a true icon," said one fan on Twitter. "His performance in The Karate Kid will always be remembered." "I'm so saddened to hear about Chad McQueen's passing," said another fan on Facebook. "He was a talented actor and a wonderful person. My condolences to his family and friends." Chad McQueen's legacy will live on through his work in film and television. He was a talented actor who brought joy to audiences around the world. He will be deeply missed.