Chad McQueen, the son of Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, has died. Meet the children he left behind, who are continuing the McQueen legacy in acting, racing, and beyond.

Chad McQueen, the son of legendary actor Steve McQueen, died on September 11, 2024, in Palm Springs at the age of 63. Chad, known for his devotion to his family and enthusiasm for racing, left a legacy that was inextricably linked to his father’s life.

His wife, Jeanie, and children released a heartfelt social media statement announcing the passing of their father, Chad McQueen. His incredible journey as a loving father to us, together with his everlasting commitment to our mother, reflected a life of love and dedication.”

The family 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 stressed their commitment to carrying on this heritage, saying, “He handed along his passion, expertise, and dedication to us, and we will carry on not just his legacy, but also our grandfather’s. As a family, we need to navigate this difficult time, and we respectfully want privacy as we remember and celebrate his wonderful life.”

Chad was most remembered for his role as Dutch in “The Karate Kid” (1984) and its sequel, “The Karate Kid Part II” (1986). His portrayal of a Cobra Kai member left a lasting influence on 1980s pop culture.

Dutch, known for his violent nature, frequently pushed his fellow Cobra Kai members to abuse the protagonist, Daniel LaRusso, played by Ralph Macchio. Though Chad’s film career did not approach the heights of his father’s, he left an indelible impression with performances in films such as “New York Cop” in 1993 and “Red Line” in 1995.

Chad’s primary passion was racing, not acting. Chad followed in his father’s footsteps and became a successful professional racing car driver, competing in major races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring.

He also launched McQueen Racing, a firm that produces high-performance automobiles and motorcycles, cementing McQueen’s heritage in the automotive industry.

However, a near-fatal collision during his preparation for the Daytona International Speedway’s Rolex 24 race severely hampered his racing career in 2006.

Chad lived, but the incident ruined his professional racing career. Nonetheless, he continued to participate in motorsports through his organization.

Chad McQueen was born on December 28, 1960, in Los Angeles and reared in Malibu. He carried the McQueen name with pride and dedication, merging Hollywood stardom with the high-octane world of racing. He is survived by his wife and three children. Continue reading to meet all of his children.

Chad’s oldest son, Steven R. McQueen, who was born to a different mother than his younger brothers, continued the family history of acting and carved out a position in Hollywood. Steven, who was born on July 13, 1988, rose to prominence as Jeremy Gilbert on the hit television show “The Vampire Diaries.”

He also appeared in other important films, including “Chicago Fire,” “Everwood,” and the horror picture “Piranha 3D.” Despite never meeting his renowned grandpa, Steven frequently credited the McQueen name with opening doors in Hollywood, but he remained determined to carve his own path.

In interviews, the actor expressed respect for his grandfather’s work, recalling moments when he saw films like “The Thomas Crown Affair,” “Bullitt,” and “The Great Escape,” which inspired his desire to perform.

Steven’s career has been motivated by a desire to honor his family’s history while remaining loyal to his own style and interests, frequently opting toward darker parts that contrast with his grandfather’s action-hero reputation.

However, his skills go beyond acting. In 2014, he exhibited his motorbike abilities and rugged appearance in an Abercrombie & Fitch commercial, evoking unavoidable similarities to his grandpa.

Steven is proud of his history and has the McQueen crest tattooed on his body, as well as a phrase from Robert Frost’s poem “The Road Not Taken,” which represents his path of making daring and unusual choices in life and profession.

Chase McQueen, Chad’s second son, is following in his father and grandfather’s footsteps, seeking a racing career. Chase, like Chad, has acquired a passion for the racetrack and competes professionally.

In addition to his racing career, Chase has experience working behind the scenes in the film industry, most notably as a member of the auxiliary crew for the film “Eating Out: Drama Camp.”

He had a moderate Instagram following at the time of writing, with 11.8K followers who frequently complimented his similarity to his famed grandpa.

“Wow, you look like your grandfather,” one user wrote on one of Chase’s social media pictures. Another individual had the same emotion, writing, “I can’t believe your grandfather Steve McQueen looks just like you!” And Steve is my fave fan [sic].

Chase paid homage to his father on social media when he passed away, writing, “To my Dad, you were a true leader, the toughest man I’ve ever known.” Many people adored you, and you had a unique way of impacting everyone you encountered.

The statement went on to say, “You pushed me harder than anybody else ever could, and I’ll be eternally thankful. You gave everything you had to safeguard our family, and I pledge to continue that heritage. Knowing you are finally together with your father and sister gives me some consolation. I love you till the next time we ride.”

Madison McQueen, Chad’s youngest child and only daughter, was born in 1997 and continues the McQueen family’s interest in both performance and racing.

Madison, known for her fearlessness, has never seen her grandfather but feels a strong connection to his history. She accepted her family’s passion for vehicles, particularly Porsches, and cherishes memories of racing with her father.

Madison has been open about her passion for her family’s past, frequently cherishing objects passed down from her father and grandparents. She gave birth to a son in 2023, ushering in a new generation for the McQueen family.

Chad McQueen’s three children—Chase, Steven, and Madison—honor their father’s and grandfather’s heritage, each contributing in their own way to the McQueen family’s lasting effect on Hollywood and racing.