38 Facts About Steve McQueen Death

Early Life and Career

Steve McQueen, known as the "King of Cool," had a life filled with adventure and drama. His death, like his life, was surrounded by intrigue and speculation.

1. Born on March 24, 1930, in Beech Grove, Indiana, Steve McQueen's early life was marked by instability and hardship.
2. His father abandoned the family when Steve was just a few months old, leading to a tumultuous childhood.
3. McQueen spent time in a reform school, the California Junior Boys Republic, which he later credited with turning his life around.
4. Before becoming an actor, McQueen served in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he was promoted to Private First Class and later demoted for insubordination.

Rise to Fame

Steve McQueen's rise to stardom was meteoric, and he quickly became one of Hollywood's most bankable stars.

5. McQueen's breakout role came in the 1958 film "The Blob," a low-budget horror movie that became a cult classic.
6. He gained widespread recognition for his role in the TV series "Wanted: Dead or Alive," which aired from 1958 to 1961.
7. His performance in "The Magnificent Seven" (1960) solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood.
8. McQueen's role in "The Great Escape" (1963) showcased his talent for performing his own stunts, including the famous motorcycle chase scene.

Health Struggles

Despite his tough-guy image, Steve McQueen faced significant health challenges throughout his life.

9. McQueen was a heavy smoker, which contributed to his health problems later in life.
10. In 1978, he began experiencing a persistent cough and shortness of breath, which led to a diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
11. Mesothelioma is often linked to asbestos exposure, and McQueen believed he was exposed to asbestos while working on movie sets and in the Marine Corps.
12. By the time of his diagnosis, the cancer had already spread, making treatment options limited.

Alternative Treatments

In his quest to fight cancer, Steve McQueen sought out unconventional treatments.

13. McQueen traveled to Mexico in 1980 to undergo alternative treatments that were not available in the United States.
14. He received treatments at the clinic of Dr. William Kelley, who used a controversial regimen involving coffee enemas, laetrile (a substance derived from apricot pits), and other unproven methods.
15. Despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting these treatments, McQueen was desperate for a cure and willing to try anything.
16. His decision to seek alternative treatments was met with criticism from the medical community and skepticism from the public.

Final Days

Steve McQueen's final days were marked by a mix of hope and despair as he battled his illness.

17. In October 1980, McQueen underwent surgery in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, to remove a large tumor from his abdomen.
18. The surgery was risky, and doctors warned that McQueen might not survive the procedure.
19. Despite the odds, McQueen came through the surgery, but his condition continued to deteriorate.
20. On November 7, 1980, Steve McQueen died of a heart attack at the age of 50, just hours after the surgery.

Legacy and Impact

Steve McQueen's death left a lasting impact on Hollywood and his fans around the world.

21. McQueen's funeral was held in Los Angeles, and he was buried in an unmarked grave in the Pacific Ocean.
22. His widow, Barbara Minty, later scattered his ashes in the Pacific Ocean, fulfilling his final wish.
23. McQueen's death brought attention to the dangers of asbestos exposure and the need for better safety regulations.
24. His battle with cancer and decision to seek alternative treatments sparked debates about the efficacy and ethics of such methods.

Personal Life

Steve McQueen's personal life was as colorful and complex as his career.

25. McQueen was married three times, first to Neile Adams, then to Ali MacGraw, and finally to Barbara Minty.
26. He had two children with Neile Adams: a son, Chad, and a daughter, Terry.
27. McQueen's relationship with Ali MacGraw was highly publicized, and their marriage was marked by both passion and turmoil.
28. Despite his tough exterior, McQueen was known to be a loving father and a loyal friend.

Hobbies and Interests

Beyond acting, Steve McQueen had a wide range of interests and hobbies that defined his persona.

29. McQueen was an avid motorcycle and car enthusiast, often performing his own stunts in films.
30. He participated in several professional racing events, including the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Baja 1000.
31. McQueen's extensive collection of motorcycles and cars included rare and valuable models, some of which were auctioned off after his death.
32. He was also passionate about martial arts and held a black belt in karate.

Cultural Influence

Steve McQueen's influence extended beyond the silver screen, impacting fashion, music, and popular culture.

33. McQueen's iconic style, characterized by rugged masculinity and effortless cool, continues to inspire fashion trends today.
34. He was known for his love of denim, leather jackets, and aviator sunglasses, which became signature elements of his look.
35. McQueen's image has been referenced in numerous songs, films, and TV shows, cementing his status as a cultural icon.
36. His rebellious spirit and anti-establishment attitude resonated with the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s.

Posthumous Recognition

Even after his death, Steve McQueen's legacy continues to be celebrated and honored.

37. In 2007, McQueen was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the sport.
38. His films, including "Bullitt," "Papillon," and "The Thomas Crown Affair," remain classics and are regularly screened and studied by film enthusiasts.

Steve McQueen's Legacy Lives On

Steve McQueen's death on November 7, 1980, marked the end of an era in Hollywood. Known as the "King of Cool," his influence on film and pop culture remains undeniable. From his iconic roles in movies like "Bullitt" and "The Great Escape" to his passion for racing, McQueen's life was a blend of adventure and rebellion. Despite his passing, his legacy continues to inspire new generations. Fans still celebrate his work, and his films remain classics. McQueen's battle with mesothelioma, a rare cancer, highlighted the dangers of asbestos exposure, bringing awareness to the issue. His story is a testament to living life on one's terms, facing challenges head-on, and leaving an indelible mark on the world. Steve McQueen may be gone, but his spirit and contributions to cinema will never be forgotten.