Inside Steve McQueen’s Son’s Tragic Last Days: The Surgeries and Coma That Preceded His Death

Chad McQueen, the son of the famous actor Steve McQueen, has died at the age of 63. His death on September 11, 2024, was announced by his family the next day. Fans are deeply saddened by the news.

Chad, who looked and acted just like his dad, had a successful career in both acting and racing. However, he also faced many challenges, including several surgeries and a long coma.

He was well-known for his strong resemblance to his father and continued Steve McQueen’s legacy of love for fast cars and motorcycles. Chad’s passing is a significant loss to both the entertainment and racing communities.

Chad McQueen’s life took a difficult turn when he faced serious health issues that required multiple surgeries and led to a long stay in the hospital. Despite these struggles, he stayed close to his family and kept his father’s memory alive.

Chad’s health problems began with severe complications that required extensive medical procedures. He was in a coma for three and a half weeks, which added to the challenges he faced. These health issues ultimately contributed to his untimely death.

His family and fans remember him for his resilience and dedication to honoring his father’s legacy, even during his toughest times.

Chad McQueen was often described as a mirror image of his iconic father, Steve McQueen, known for classic films such as “Bullitt” and “The Great Escape.” Throughout his life, Chad was frequently noted for his striking resemblance to his dad. Fans would regularly highlight on social media just how much Chad looked like the legendary actor.

Fans often remarked on how Chad McQueen resembled his father, Steve McQueen. Common comments on his photos included “Like father, like son!” and “You look just like your dad here.” Even after Chad’s passing, people still express their admiration with remarks like “Looked like a copy of his dad” and “He’s a copy of legendary Steve McQueen.”

Chad McQueen not only resembled his father, Steve McQueen, but also shared many of his traits and passions. Chad admired his father’s values deeply, a sentiment he expressed in a 1996 interview. He spoke about inheriting his father’s calm demeanor and love for fast cars and motorcycles, which became a significant part of his own life and career.

Chad McQueen shared many values and traits with his famous father, Steve McQueen. In a 1996 interview, Chad mentioned that he had come to appreciate his father’s cautious approach to life as he grew older. Like Steve, Chad pursued careers in acting and racing, reflecting his father’s influence.

Racing was a significant part of Chad’s life from a young age. By just 12 years old, he had already achieved a major milestone by winning the World Mini Grand Prix, showcasing his passion for speed and competition that was deeply ingrained in him.

Chad’s love for racing was more than just a personal interest; it was a connection he shared with his father, Steve McQueen. Their mutual passion for racing created a strong bond between them. Chad fondly remembered spending time with his father on movie sets, especially during the filming of the 1971 racing movie “Le Mans,” where he would often accompany Steve. These moments were significant in strengthening their relationship and deepening Chad’s involvement in the racing world.

During these moments, Chad experienced the thrill of professional racing firsthand. He would sit on his father’s lap as they drove a Porsche 917, reaching speeds of up to 100 mph. These high-speed experiences not only deepened Chad’s passion for racing but also created unforgettable memories with his father.

Racing was a major part of Chad’s life, both in his professional and personal pursuits. He took part in various motorsport events like the Baja 1000 and Motocross. Even as his acting career began to flourish, Chad never stopped racing and continued to compete in different events.

Chad’s racing career was abruptly cut short by a devastating accident. He had no plans of slowing down at the time, but in an instant, everything changed. Chad later mentioned that the crash might have been caused by a tire issue or a mistake on his part.

**A Missed Opportunity with *Cobra Kai***

Though Chad McQueen’s racing career was tragically cut short, he remained a memorable part of Hollywood, especially known for his role as Dutch in *The Karate Kid* series. Fans of the beloved franchise were thrilled when the spinoff series *Cobra Kai* was announced, hoping Chad would reprise his iconic role.

Despite the enthusiasm and discussions about bringing Chad back, he ultimately decided not to return for *Cobra Kai*. Hayden Schlossberg, one of the creators of the series, reflected on the situation, saying, “RIP Chad McQueen. We tried to get him in *Cobra Kai* and unfortunately couldn’t make that work, but we had fun conversations with him.”

Although Chad did not return to the series, his portrayal of Dutch left a lasting impact on the *Karate Kid* universe, and fans continue to remember and celebrate his role. His decision not to join *Cobra Kai* only heightened fans’ nostalgia for his memorable character.

**A Family Man and Loving Father**

Beyond his Hollywood career and racing passion, Chad McQueen was deeply devoted to his family. He married Jeanie Galbraith in 1993, and together they had two children, Chase and Madison. Chad’s love for his family was evident, and they were central to his life.

Chad McQueen’s dedication to his family was clear in the way he passed on the McQueen legacy. His son Chase, who shares his father’s passion for racing, continues the family tradition that began with Steve McQueen.

Chad’s other son, Steven R. McQueen, from a previous relationship, has also made a name for himself in Hollywood. He is well-known for his role as Jeremy Gilbert on *The Vampire Diaries*.

In his final days, Chad McQueen’s health had been deteriorating due to complications from a previous injury. His family shared that the injury, which he sustained a few years ago, led to progressive organ failure. This condition ultimately resulted in his passing on September 11, 2024.

Chad McQueen’s death was met with an outpouring of love and support from those closest to him and the wider community. His family expressed both their deep sadness and pride in his legacy, highlighting how his passion for racing was a tribute to his father, Steve McQueen.

In their heartfelt statement, they noted, “His passion for racing not only highlighted his exceptional talent but also served as a way to honor his father’s legacy.” Tributes from the entertainment and motorsports worlds flowed in, celebrating Chad’s contributions and impact.

Richard Rawlings, star of “Fast N’ Loud,” paid tribute on social media, saying, “The McQueen legacy is one of a kind, and Chad kept that cool, fearless spirit alive.” Chad McQueen’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy, like his father’s, will continue to inspire and resonate with future generations.