Karate Kid star dead - after health complications caused by car racing accident
Karate Kid actor Chad McQueen has sadly died at the age of 63. His long-term lawyer, Arthur Barens, confirmed the heartbreaking news, revealing that Chad, who is the son of legendary actor Steve McQueen, passed away at his ranch in Palm Desert, California. The star's health complications stemmed from a racing injury he suffered years ago, which led to progressive organ failure and ultimately his death.
In his final moments, Chad was surrounded by his loved ones including Arthur, his wife Jeanie Galbraith, and his two children Chase McQueen and Madison McQueen, as reported by TMZ. Before his untimely passing, Chad was a respected actor, film producer, martial artist, and professional race-car driver.
The original Karate Kid cast is currently enjoying a boost in popularity thanks to the success of the revival show Cobra Kai. Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio have also recently announced a brand new The Karate Kid movie.
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Chad was most recognised for his role as Dutch in Karate Kid and The Karate Kid Part II. In the original Karate Kid, Dutch was a supporting antagonist and part of Johnny Lawrence's gang of bullies. Netflix approached Chad about reprising his villainous role in the newly released series Cobra Kai, but he turned down the offer as he was committed to his company McQueen Racing and had no further interest in acting.
In the franchise, Dutch was written off as getting arrested in 1993 for hot wiring a go-cart and driving it into a pool at the country club.
During his acting career, Chad starred in a number of television shows and films often centred around martial arts and other action-packed adventures. Some of his most famous projects included Martial Law, Firepower, Red Line, Death Ring, Surface to Air, among others.
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After leaving Hollywood, Chad pursued a career as a professional race car driver. He competed in several types of racing from Motocross to the Baja 1000. In 2004, he qualified for the SCCA Runoffs, and brought home awards in multiple events. Racing for Westernesse Racing, he finished in fourth place.
However, Chad's life took a dramatic turn after he suffered a serious racing accident that left him with a broken lower left leg, two fractures to his vertebrae, and multiple rib fractures. The incident occurred at the Daytona International Speedway while he was practising for the 24 Hours of Daytona Sports Car race.
