Cobra Kai Star William Zabka Posts Tribute to Karate Kid Co-Star Chad McQueen

Cobra Kai Star William Zabka Posts Tribute to Karate Kid Co-Star Chad McQueen

As a fellow child of Hollywood, I can truly appreciate the unique journey that Chad McQueen embarked upon, following in the footsteps of his legendary father Steve McQueen. His life was a testament to passion, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of the McQueens.


Earlier this week, Chad McQueen, known for his role in The Karate Kid, passed away at the age of 63. Now, his co-star William Zabka from the same movie is honoring him with a heartfelt post on social media. On Friday, Zabka, who also stars in Cobra Kai, shared memories of McQueen and expressed his affection for the man he referred to as his “dear friend & Cobra Kai brother forever.

Regrettably, I’m mourning the loss of Chad McQueen yesterday. Memories with him during the filming of “The Karate Kid” are among my favorites. He was truly unique, a man who danced to his own rhythm and never failed to make me smile. Every day we caravanned to the set, him in his gleaming silver Porsche, leading the way… he was indeed a legend on and off the screen.

— William Zabka (@WilliamZabka) September 13, 2024

Unfortunately, Chad McQueen passed away yesterday. I have a wealth of wonderful memories with him during our filming days for “The Karate Kid”. He truly stood out as an extraordinary individual. He walked to his own rhythm and never failed to make me smile. Every day, we would carpool to the set in style – him in his shiny Porsche with loud music playing, while I cruised along in my tough Honda Accord. Among the original Cobra drivers, he was the coolest and most enjoyable.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity I’ve had to rekindle our friendship over the last few years; it felt like no time had passed. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, family, and loved ones. Rest In Peace, Chadwick – my cherished friend and fellow Cobra Kai brother forever.

Raised in the bustling city of Los Angeles, McQueen was the offspring of renowned actor Steve McQueen. He inherited not just his father’s acting talent but also his passion for automobiles, motorcycles, and racing. His initial significant film role came in 1978 with the movie Skateboard, though it was his portrayal of the ruthless companion Dutch to Johnny Lawrence in the 1984 blockbuster The Karate Kid that truly catapulted him into stardom. He reprised this role in the sequel, The Karate Kid Part II. McQueen’s acting career began to wind down by the 2000s, but his love for racing persisted until a 2006 accident during practice sessions for the Daytona Sports Car race. In 2010, he established McQueen Racing LLC. McQueen leaves behind his wife Jeanie and their son Steven, an actor who has made appearances in shows like The Vampire Diaries and Chicago Fire.

With great sadness, we share the news of the passing of our beloved father, Chad McQueen. His life, marked by love and dedication towards us and our mother, was a shining example of devotion and commitment. His passion for racing, an extension of his father’s legacy, showcased his extraordinary talent and the values he carried within him.

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2024-09-14 07:39