William Zabka remembers 'Karate Kid' co-star Chad McQueen as 'baddest of the OG Cobras' after death at 63

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: William Zabka has paid a touching tribute to his 'Karate Kid' co-star Chad McQueen, following the actor's recent death, as reported by People.

McQueen, renowned for his role as Dutch in the iconic 1984 film and its sequel, died on September 11 at the age of 63, as confirmed by his family on September 12.

William Zabka’s heartfelt tribute to Chad McQueen

In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on September 13, Zabka reminisced about their time together on the set of the iconic franchise. He shared several nostalgic photos, including images of McQueen in character and candid behind-the-scenes shots with their fellow cast members.

One cherished photo showed the group, including Rob Garrison, Ron Thomas, and Tony O'Dell, alongside Pat Morita, who played Mr Miyagi, enjoying ice cream together.

Zabka fondly remembered McQueen as "the baddest of the OG Cobras" and reflected on the fun and laughter he brought to the set. 

“Sadly, we lost the legendary Chad McQueen yesterday. I have so many great memories of him when we were filming the ‘Karate Kid,’” Zabka wrote. “He was truly one of a kind. He marched to the beat of his own drum and always made me laugh.”

Zabka recalled how McQueen would show up to the Karate Kid set "in his silver Porsche" with music blaring while Zabka would pull in "with (his) trusty Honda Accord."

“He was the baddest of the OG Cobras in the most fun and entertaining way. I’m so thankful I had the chance to reconnect with him over the past few years,” he noted.

"It was like no time had gone by at all. My love and deepest sympathies to his wife and family. RIP Chadwick my dear friend & Cobra Kai brother 4 ever,” he concluded.

Ron Thomas, another 'Karate Kid' cast member, commented on Zabka’s post and also honored McQueen, expressing his sorrow over the loss.

"The brotherhood we share. The memories. The stories— like the one with a certain sock. R.I.P. brother Chad."

On his own Instagram, Thomas shared his memories of McQueen, describing him as a "Wild Child" with a heart of gold.

“I'm incredibly saddened to hear about Chad's passing. He embodied the spirit of Dutch. He was a true ‘Wild Child,’ but with a heart of gold and so much fun to be around,” Thomas wrote.

“We could always count on Chad to liven it up on those long shoot days if things got too boring. So many fond memories. So many stories. My deepest condolences to his entire family. ”

“I have no doubt you are striking hard in that Divine Dojo and racing fast through the streets of heaven. Be careful not to get pulled over by the police, or you know what happens; you'll be late to the set! R.I.P. My Cobra brother!” Thomas concluded.

Chad McQueen, the son of legendary actor Steve McQueen, followed in his father's footsteps by pursuing a career in acting and racing. After starring in films like 'Death Ring', 'Firepower', and 'Red Line', McQueen transitioned to a successful career in sports car racing starting in the 1990s. His final film appearance was in 2001's 'Fall: The Price of Silence.'

William Zabka’s tribute to Chad McQueen sparks wholesome Internet reactions

The internet is abuzz with love and nostalgia following William Zabka's touching tribute to his 'Karate Kid' co-star Chad McQueen after his death. Fans of the iconic 1984 film have flooded social media, expressing their condolences and sharing memories of McQueen, who played the memorable role of Dutch in the original 'Karate Kid'.

One fan encapsulated the sentiment of many by writing, "Cobra Kai never dies! RIP Chad McQueen!!" Another wrote, "Sad that he didn't get to return and kick ass one last time."

Several fans credited McQueen and the original cast for making their childhoods unforgettable, with one noting, "Thank you for making our childhood the best ever. R.I.P. Chad."

Other user wrote, "I'm now going to watch Karate Kid to remember one of Cobra Kai's most iconic black belts. Rest in peace Chad Mcqueen."

"May his memory be eternal. Cobra Kai Never Dies," summed up another user.

"I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm gutted we never got to see Dutch on Cobra Kai but his legend remains. Such a badass. Rest In Peace, Chad," a user said.

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