They say time flies when you’re having fun, but sometimes, it’s the moments that seem to last the longest that we’re left with. On December 21, 2024, the entertainment world was struck with devastating news: 16-year-old Hudson Meek, who had only just begun to make his mark in Hollywood, tragically passed away following an accident.
The tragic news hit like a bolt from the blue, delivered in the most poignant of ways—a simple yet deeply moving post on Meek’s Instagram. Best known for his role as the young version of Ansel Elgort’s character in the 2017 hit Baby Driver, he was in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, when disaster struck.
Tragic loss of Hudson Meek: The bright star that was taken too soon
Life has a cruel way of sweeping the ground from beneath our feet when we least expect it. One moment, a person is chasing their dreams with the fire of ambition in their eyes, and the next, they’re gone—leaving behind an empty space that feels impossible to fill. On December 21, 2024, Hudson Meek, the 16-year-old actor, best known for his role as the young version of Baby in Baby Driver, passed away following a heartbreaking accident.
Meek’s passing, reported by AL.com, was a result of “blunt force injuries after falling to the road from a moving vehicle”. Despite the best efforts to save him, the young actor never recovered from his injuries, passing away two days after the accident. The news was also confirmed on Meek’s Instagram account, leaving friends, family, and fans to mourn the loss of a bright and promising talent:
Local news outlets revealed that Meek was immediately rushed to UAB Hospital, where, despite all attempts to save him, he tragically died. The Vestavia Hills Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident. We learned from PEOPLE.
Meek’s death has left a gaping hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and those who knew him. His role in Baby Driver, alongside Ansel Elgort, introduced his immense potential to the world.
Meek had only just begun to carve out his place in the entertainment industry, with roles in TV shows like MacGyver, Genius, and The School Duel. 2025 was shaping up to be another busy year for Meek, one that now, tragically, will never come.
Remembering Hudson Meek & his acting career: Rising star gone too soon
Hudson Meek, whose career started at a young age, was perhaps best known for his portrayal of a young baby in the 2017 hit film Baby Driver. Directed by Edgar Wright, the film was a high-energy ride that captured audiences worldwide, and Hudson’s role showed just a glimmer of the talent this teen had.
His IMDb page tells the story of a budding actor with an impressive range: from The Santa Con in 2014 to TV appearances in MacGyver and Genius, to his most recent project, The School Duel. The obituary honoring him said it best, describing him as “an accomplished actor” with a love for the work.
A sophomore at Vestavia Hills High School and a member of the school’s football team, he was a multifaceted individual. His “personality was one of a kind,” reads a tribute in his obituary. Meek lived life with confidence, wit, and spontaneity, making everyone around him feel like they mattered. As the obituary shares,
Beyond acting and sports, Meek had a deep devotion to his Christian faith, something his family holds close to their hearts, finding comfort in the support he received from adults who nurtured his faith.
The J Pervis Talent Agency, where Meek was a cherished member for over a decade, described him as an “extraordinary young talent”. Their post read:
His warmth wasn’t confined to the set—he left a lasting impact on all who knew him, inspiring everyone he met along the way. Survived by his parents, his older brother, and his extended family, Hudson Meek’s spirit will continue to shine in the memories of those who knew and loved him.
Baby Driver is currently streaming on Netflix.