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Entertainment • Actor

Chad McQueen

Chad McQueen was an American actor, producer, and racing driver best known for playing Dutch in The Karate Kid and The Karate Kid Part II.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Chad McQueen was an American actor, producer, and racing driver, best known for playing Dutch in The Karate Kid and The Karate Kid Part II. He was the son of actor Steve McQueen and actress Neile Adams. McQueen later focused on motorsport and related business ventures before his death in 2024 at age 63.

Early life

McQueen was born in Los Angeles in 1960 as Chadwick Steven McQueen. He came from a prominent entertainment family, being the only son of actor Steve McQueen and actress Neile Adams.

Acting career

McQueen acted primarily from the late 1970s through 2001. His most recognized performances were in The Karate Kid (1984) and The Karate Kid Part II (1986), where he played the character Dutch. He also worked as a producer.

Racing career

McQueen also pursued motorsport and was known as a race car driver. His racing interests later extended into business through McQueen Racing, a motorsports company he founded.

Death

McQueen died on September 11, 2024, in Palm Desert, California, at age 63. The cause of death was reported as organ failure.

Key facts

  • Born in Los Angeles in 1960 as Chadwick Steven McQueen.
  • He was the only son of Steve McQueen and Neile Adams.
  • Best known for playing Dutch in The Karate Kid (1984) and its sequel.
  • Also worked as a producer and race car driver.
  • Founded McQueen Racing, a motorsports business.
  • Died of organ failure in Palm Desert, California, in 2024.
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Canadian context

McQueen was part of a globally recognized film family and is best known to Canadian readers through The Karate Kid franchise, which had broad popularity in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Chad McQueen?
He was an American actor, producer, and race car driver best known for playing Dutch in The Karate Kid films.
Who were Chad McQueen’s parents?
His parents were actor Steve McQueen and actress Neile Adams.
What was Chad McQueen’s most famous role?
His most famous role was Dutch in The Karate Kid (1984) and The Karate Kid Part II (1986).
Did Chad McQueen work outside acting?
Yes. He also worked as a producer and was involved in racing and motorsport-related business ventures.
When did Chad McQueen die?
He died on September 11, 2024, at age 63.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chad_McQueen
    Supports: Birth, death, occupations, parents, and acting years.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0574337/
    Supports: Birth/death details, occupations, and notable film credits.
  3. AARP — https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/celebrities/chad-mcqueen-obit/
    Supports: Obituary details, major roles, racing background, and McQueen Racing.
  4. OldRacingCars.com — https://www.oldracingcars.com/driver/Chad_McQueen
    Supports: Racing career and McQueen Racing business background.