Chad McQueen, who played a supporting role in the original Karate Kid film, has died at age 63.
McQueen died Wednesday from organ failure at his home in Palm Desert, California, his longtime attorney Arthur Barens told TMZ.
McQueen was not only known as an actor, but was also the son of the iconic star Steve McQueen.
According to his attorney, McQueen had been suffering from progressively worsening organ failure caused by a serious injury he suffered years earlier, which eventually led to his death.
He was reportedly surrounded by his children and his wife Jeanie in his final moments.
Chad McQueen, who played a supporting role in the original Karate Kid film, has died at age 63; pictured in 2004 in Los Angeles
McQueen played Dutch, a member of the villainous Cobra Kai gang in The Karate Kid (1984)
In a statement to Variety, McQueen’s wife Jeanie and his children Chase and Madison wrote: ‘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.
‘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,’ they continued.
‘He passed his passion, knowledge and dedication down to us, and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfather’s as well,’ McQueen’s family concluded. ‘As a family, we need to navigate this difficult time, and we kindly ask for privacy as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.’
After appearing in the original 1984 Karate Kid, McQueen reprised his role in The Karate Kid Part II, which was released in 1986.
Chad (R) was the son of the legendary Hollywood star Steve McQueen (pictured on the left on the set of his film Le Mans in 1971)
According to his attorney, McQueen died at his home in Palm Desert, California, while surrounded by his wife Jeanie and children; pictured in 2015 in North Hollywood
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