A teen actor, whose credits include the 2017 film Baby Driver and the reboot of the television action series MacGyver, died after reportedly falling from a moving vehicle in Alabama last week.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Hudson Joseph Meek, 16, who suffered blunt force injuries after falling in the 1900 block of Canyon Road in Vestavia Hills on Thursday, December 19, according to Al.com, CBS affiliate WIAT, and NBC affiliate WTVM.
According to local news outlets, Meek was taken to UAB Hospital and died two days later from his injuries. They also stated that the Vestavia Hills Police Department is investigating the incident.
Meek’s Instagram post on Saturday, December 21, read: “Our hearts are broken to share that Hudson Meek went home to be with Jesus tonight. His 16 years on Earth were far too short, but he accomplished so much and had a significant impact on everyone he met.”
According to his IMDb page, Meek’s professional acting credits date back to 2014, when he appeared in the television film The Santa Con, alongside Melissa Joan Hart and Jaleel White.
Meek also appeared in Edgar Wright’s 2017 film Baby Driver, playing the younger version of the film’s main character, Baby, who is played by Ansel Elgort.
His other acting credits, according to IMDb, include the MacGyver reboot series, Genius, and, most recently, The School Duel.
“Hudson was also an accomplished actor,” according to an obituary. “He worked on several major film and television projects, some of which will be released in 2025. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time on set and learning the names and stories of each member of the cast and crew.
According to the obituary, Meek, of Vestavia Hills, was a sophomore at Vestavia Hills High School and a member of the football team. In addition to acting, Meek enjoyed sports, travel, and spending time with his close friends.
“Hudson had a unique personality. “He was confident, convicted in his beliefs, spontaneous, and quick-witted,” according to the tribute. “He never let facts get in the way of telling a funny story, and he enjoyed friendly banter.”
He was a prankster who enjoyed a good joke and was happiest when making others laugh. Hudson thrived in settings where he could meet and serve new people. Hudson was a vibrant and dynamic individual who embraced life to the fullest.”
The obituary also emphasized Meek’s Christian faith, writing, “Hudson’s family is comforted and eternally grateful for those and other moments where adults fostered the faith of Hudson and students like him.”
In a post on Sunday, December 22, the J Pervis Talent Agency described Meek as a “cherished member” of its family, writing, “Hudson was an extraordinary young talent, whose dedication, passion, and promise shone brightly within our industry.”
He has made significant contributions to the spirit of our agency over the last ten years, and his passing leaves a void that will be felt by all of us.
“Hudson was more than just a talent, he was a source of inspiration and touched so many lives with his enthusiasm, kindness, smile and innate ability to light up a room and never meet a stranger,” said the agency’s statement. “He will be remembered with great affection by us all.”
Meek is survived by his parents, older brother, grandmothers, and other family members.
