Chad McQueen, the son of the iconic actor Steve McQueen, passed away on September 11, 2024, in Palm Springs at the age of 63. Known for his dedication to his family and passion for racing, Chad left behind a legacy that intertwined with his father’s storied life.
Steve and Chad McQueen photographed on the set of the movie “Le Mans” on June 24, 1971, in France. | Source: Getty Images
In a heartfelt post shared on social media, his wife Jeanie and children stated, “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.”
The family’s statement 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.”
The McQueen family emphasized their commitment to continuing this legacy, adding, “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.”
Chad was best known for his role as Dutch in the 1984 film “The Karate Kid 1984 and its sequel, “The Karate Kid Part II” in 1986. His portrayal of one of the Cobra Kai members made a lasting impression on ’80s pop culture.
Dutch, notorious for his aggressive attitude, often encouraged his fellow Cobra Kai members to bully the protagonist, Daniel LaRusso, played by Ralph Macchio. Though Chad’s film career did not reach the heights of his father’s, he made a memorable mark with roles in movies like “New York Cop” in 1993 and “Red Line” in 1995.
Chad McQueen at the 68th Cannes International Film Festival on May 16, 2015, in France. | Source: Getty Images
More than acting, racing was Chad’s true calling. Following in Steve’s footsteps, Chad became a successful professional race car driver, competing in prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring.
He also founded McQueen Racing, a company that develops high-performance cars and motorcycles, solidifying the McQueen legacy in the automotive world.
Chad McQueen at the US premiere of “Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans” on November 11, 2015, in North Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
However, his racing career faced a severe setback in 2006 when he suffered a near-fatal crash while practicing for the Daytona International Speedway’s Rolex 24 event.
Though Chad survived, the crash ended his professional racing career. Nevertheless, he continued to be involved in motorsports through his company.
Born on December 28, 1960, in Los Angeles and raised in Malibu, Chad carried the McQueen name with pride and determination, blending Hollywood fame with the high-octane world of motorsports. He is survived by his wife and three children, Steven, Chase, and Madison.
Chad McQueen’s Children
Chad’s oldest son, Steven R. McQueen, embraced the family tradition of acting, carving out his niche in Hollywood. Born on July 13, 1988, Steven gained widespread recognition for his role as Jeremy Gilbert on the popular TV series “The Vampire Diaries.”
He also appeared in other notable projects, such as “Chicago Fire,” “Everwood,” and the horror film “Piranha 3D.” Despite never meeting his iconic grandfather, Steven often credited the McQueen name for opening doors in Hollywood, though he remained determined to forge his own path.
In interviews, the actor spoke of his admiration for his grandfather’s work, recalling times when he would watch films like “The Thomas Crown Affair,” “Bullitt,” and “The Great Escape,” which fueled his passion for acting.
Steven’s career has been driven by a desire to honor his family’s legacy while staying true to his unique style and interests, often gravitating toward darker roles that contrast with his grandfather’s action-hero persona.
However, his talents extend beyond acting. In 2014, he showcased his motorcycle skills and rugged looks in a campaign for Abercrombie & Fitch, drawing inevitable comparisons to his grandfather.
Proud of his heritage, Steven carries the McQueen crest tattooed on his body and a quote from Robert Frost’s poem, “The Road Not Taken,” symbolizing his journey of making bold and unconventional choices in life and career.
Chad’s second son, Chase McQueen, also followed closely in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps by pursuing a career in racing. Much like Chad, Chase has developed a passion for the racetrack, showcasing his skills professionally.
Beyond his career in motorsports, Chase has also worked behind the scenes in the film industry, including his role as part of the additional crew for the film “Eating Out: Drama Camp.”
He had built a modest following on Instagram at the time of writing, boasting 11.8K followers who often praised his resemblance to his legendary grandfather, Steve McQueen.
“Wow looking like ur grandfather,” one person commented on one of Chase’s social media posts. Another person shared the same sentiment, typing, “I can’t believe it your grandfather Steve McQueen look alike you! And Steve is my favorite fan [sic].”
Following his father’s passing, Chase paid tribute to him on social media with a heartfelt message that read, “To my Dad, you were a true leader, the toughest man I’ve ever known. You were loved by so many and had a unique way of touching the lives of everyone you met.”
The post continued, “You pushed me harder than anyone else ever could, and for that, I’m forever grateful. You protected our family with everything you had, and I promise to carry on that legacy. Knowing you’re now reunited with your Dad and Sister brings me some comfort. Until we ride again, I love you.”
Chad’s youngest child and only daughter, Madison McQueen, was born in 1997 and also carries on the McQueen family’s passion for both performance and racing.
Known for her fearless spirit, Madison never met her grandfather but feels deeply connected to his legacy. She embraced the family’s love for cars, particularly Porsches, and has fond memories of racing experiences with her father.
Madison has been candid about her love for her family’s history, often cherishing items passed down from her father and grandfather. In 2023, she welcomed a son, marking the beginning of a new generation in the McQueen family.
In August of that year, Madison took to Instagram to celebrate her son turning 5 months, sharing, “Well, we officially have a 5-month-old!! Our handsome boy is so loved and we couldn’t be more grateful for all our family and friends!!”
Together, Chad McQueen’s children—Chase, Steven, and Madison—honor their father’s and grandfather’s legacies, each contributing in their unique ways to the McQueen family’s enduring impact on Hollywood and motorsports.
