The movie The Karate Kid has seen a real resurgence in popularity thanks to the Cobra Kai show but we all loved the original The Karate Kid movie who grew up watching it over, and over, and will no doubt remember the actor Chad McQueen who played on of Johnny Lawrence best friends when he got his big break in 1984 when cast in the hit movie. While in the film “The Karate Kid” playing "Dutch" where not only did he really look the part. But also played him as vicious as there would be in the Cobra Kai crew on that movie.
The hilarious part was in real life he was a very humble and actually nice person and too boot a legacy name actor in that he was the son of screen Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, and now it's saddens me to report that he has died at age 63.
Way too young if you ask me and with deepest condolences I write this because he was set to return in a Cobra Kai episode but didn't end up in it where he was going to reprise his role as "Dutch" ... Remember again in the movie he played one the adversary of Ralph Macchio’s lead character.
McQueen’s attorney, Arthur H. Barens, told The Associated Press that he died on Wednesday. The actor followed in his father’s footsteps, both on screen and on the motor racing circuit. His wife, Jeanie Galbraith, posted a tribute to him on Instagram with their son Chase and daughter Madison. The family announced his death “with a heavy heart,” adding: “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. He passed his passion, knowledge and dedication down to us and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfathers as well.”
McQueen is also survived by his son from a former relationship, Steven R. McQueen an actor who appeared in “The Vampire Diaries.” Chad McQueen reprised his role in “The Karate Kid Part II” sequel in 1986, and appeared in several other films, and also produced two documentaries about his father: “I Am Steve McQueen” in 2014 and “Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans” the following year.
“I didn’t find acting fun anymore,” McQueen said in a 2005 interview with AP. “So, I decided to give racing a total commitment.” In a separate Instagram post, McQueen’s son Chase wrote: “Knowing you’re now reunited with the your (sic) Dad and Sister brings me some comfort. Until we ride again I love you.”
McQueen is also survived by his son from a former relationship, Steven R. McQueen an actor who appeared in “The Vampire Diaries.” Chad McQueen reprised his role in “The Karate Kid Part II” sequel in 1986, and appeared in several other films, and also produced two documentaries about his father: “I Am Steve McQueen” in 2014 and “Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans” the following year.
“I didn’t find acting fun anymore,” McQueen said in a 2005 interview with AP. “So, I decided to give racing a total commitment.” In a separate Instagram post, McQueen’s son Chase wrote: “Knowing you’re now reunited with the your (sic) Dad and Sister brings me some comfort. Until we ride again I love you.”
Also paying tribute to him online was Jon Hurwitz, one of the creators of “Cobra Kai,” the “Karate Kid” revival that has proven a hit for Netflix. He said he and his colleagues had met with McQueen to discuss a return to the series. Posting on X, Hurwitz described McQueen as a “Karate Kid legend,” adding: “Unfortunately, Chad was unable to join us when it came time to shoot. At the end of the day, it wasn’t meant to be. But Dutch will always be remembered as a badass’ badass in the Miyagiverse. He kicked ass.”
He added: “The fandom mourns a Karate Kid legend today. I’m so grateful I had the honor of spending an afternoon with him. Sending much love and strength to his wonderful family. May Chad rest in peace.”
