What happened to Hudson Meek? Tributes pour in as Baby Driver actor dies at 16

(Image via Instagram/@hudson_meek)
(Image via Instagram/@hudson_meek)

Hudson Joseph Meek, best known for playing the younger version of Ansel Elgort's character in the 2017 film Baby Driver, passed away on December 21, 2024. The 16-year-old reportedly succumbed to his injuries at the UAB Hospital in Alabama, which resulted from an accident.

The incident took place on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the 1900 block of Canyon Road in Vestavia Hills, when Hudson fell from a moving vehicle and suffered blunt force injuries, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. He was immediately rushed to the hospital where he died two days later, as per a report in Variety.

Confirming the actor’s death, his family took to his Instagram to share the news with his followers and friends; they wrote:

“Our hearts are broken to share that Hudson Meek went home to be with Jesus tonight. His 16 years on this earth were far too short, but he accomplished so much and significantly impacted everyone he met.”

They added that there will be a Celebration of Hudson’s Life on December 28, 2024. According to an Obituary posted by Searcy Funeral Home, the event will take place from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Instagram post noted that people can "contribute to a scholarship in Hudson’s memory at Vestavia Hills High School in lieu of flowers." “Please pray for Hudson’s family and friends as we all process this sudden and tragic loss.” The post concluded.

Tributes have been pouring in for the late actor since the news of his demise has been announced.


Who gave their tributes to Hudson Meek?

Many people used social media to remember Hudson Meek and his extraordinary talent.

"Hudson was an extraordinary young talent, whose dedication, passion, and promise shone brightly within our industry. Over the past 10 years, he contributed so much to the spirit of our agency and his loss leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all of us." Wrote J Pervis Talent Agency in a social media post.

“Our hearts go out to his brother Tucker Meek, his parents Lani and Derek, his friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. In this difficult time, we stand united in grief, but also in gratitude for the time we shared with Hudson.” The post added.

Meg Deusner, owner of Acting Out Academy, remembered Meek in a statement and said, “Hudson Meek was a beloved and talented member of the Acting Out Academy community since the beginning. But that is just one piece of the magical person that he was. He was kind, he was faithful, he was funny, and lit up any room. He touched so many lives and will be missed beyond measure.”

"I can’t believe Hudson Meek died on Christmas Day!" A fan wrote.
"damn man RIP Hudson Meek even tho it wasnt a long scene but he played his part really well. gone too soon." Another fan added.
"It’s a sad Christmas this year." One person added.

Other details about Hudson Meek’s life and career

Hudson Meek appeared in several films and TV series including - MacGyver, Found, The School Duel, and Legacies. He starred in Badanamu Stories, a preschool series that aired in 2020-21.

According to an obituary which was published by Searcy Funeral Home, Hudson Meek was born on August 5, 2008. He was a sophomore at Vestavia Hills High School and a proud member of the Vestavia Hills Rebel Football Team.

Besides acting, he loved traveling, water sports, and spending time with his loved ones, the obituary stated.

According to the obituary, Hudson “was also an accomplished actor. He worked on several major motion pictures and television shows, some of which will be released in 2025.

Hudson Meek is survived by his parents – Lani Wells Meek and Derek Firth Meek and his elder brother Tucker Meek.

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Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal