Hudson Joseph Meek, a 16-year-old actor known for his role in the Oscar-nominated film Baby Driver, has tragically passed away at the age of 16.
The young star died after falling from a moving vehicle in his hometown of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, the New York Post reports.
The incident occurred on the evening of December 19, just south of Birmingham.
Meek sustained severe blunt force injuries and succumbed to his wounds two days later, on December 21.
"He was surrounded by friends, family, and the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ," his family wrote in an obituary.
The Vestavia Hills Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, according to a report by NBC affiliate WVTM.
A Promising Life Cut Short
From a young age, Meek demonstrated a promising acting career.
He portrayed Young Baby in Baby Driver - a three-time Oscar-nominated film - and appeared in the Emmy-nominated series MacGyver.
Meek's voice lent character to commercials for Toys R Us, McDonald’s, and the online game League of Legends.
“Hudson was also an accomplished actor,” his obituary noted. “He worked on several major motion pictures and television shows, some of which will be released in 2025. He absolutely loved spending time on set and having the chance to learn the names and stories of every member of the cast and crew.”
Off-screen, Meek was a sophomore at Vestavia Hills High School. He played on the football team, sang in the Honor Choir, and was active in student government.
Outside of school, he achieved an advanced open-water scuba diving certification at just 14 and had managed to visit all 50 US states.
“Hudson’s personality was one of a kind,” the touching obituary continued.
“He was confident, convicted in his beliefs, spontaneous, and quick-witted. He never let the facts get in the way of a funny story, and he loved friendly banter.”
Remembering Hudson
Meek’s passing leaves behind his parents, brother, grandmothers, and extended family. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Homewood, Alabama. For those unable to attend, the service will be live-streamed via his Instagram account and his mother’s Facebook page.
In his memory, the Hudson J. Meek Memorial Scholarship has been established to benefit a Vestavia Hills High School student each year. The family has requested donations to the fund in lieu of flowers.
Fans have since taken to the young star's Instagram comments to pay tribute to the young star. "Sending love, hugs and my condolences to family and friends. May The Lord comfort your hearts in your time of sorrow," one person wrote.
A second penned: "This is just so unbelievable. May his soul rest in peace. Much love to his family and everyone who knew him well, especially during this time of grief. My condolences to you all."
"Rest in peace," others wrote, with one supporter commenting: "We will always remember you."
Our thoughts go out to Meek's family, friends, and fans at this heartbreaking time.
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