Chuck Norris has died 'suddenly', his family has announced.
The martial artist and actor's family confirmed the news on his Instagram today (20 March) following reports that he had been hospitalised following a medical emergency in Hawaii. Details surrounding this incident have not been disclosed, and the cause of death has not been shared.
The Way of the Dragon actor recently celebrated his 86th birthday and shared a social media post to mark the occasion.
This included a video of the Walker, Texas Ranger star sparring with a boxing trainer, as Norris wrote at the time: "I don’t age. I level up. I’m 86 today! Nothing like some playful action on a sunny day to make you feel young.”
Announcing the sad news of his death today, the action film legend's family wrote: "It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning."
"While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace," they continued.
"To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.
"He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.
"While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him.
"The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends."
"We know many of you had heard about his recent hospitalisation, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way. As we grieve this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family during this time.
"Thank you for loving him with us. With love, The Norris Family."
Norris was born Carlos Ray Norris on 10 March, 1940 in Oklahoma. He was an acclaimed martial arts expert, holding black belts in karate, Tang Soo Do, and taekwondo.
He won a number of championships after serving in the United States Air Force and training celebrities, including Priscilla Presley, Bob Barker, and The Great Escape's Steve McQueen, who he said encouraged him to pursue acting.
After his film debut as an uncredited bodyguard in 1968's The Wrecking Crew, he went on to have a successful acting career, having starred in as many as 34 movies, including Delta Force and Missing in Action.
His last big film credit was 2012's The Expendables 2.
The star was a friend of Bruce Lee, which led to his casting in The Way of the Dragon, where the two fighters duelled in the Colosseum, ultimately resulting in Norris's defeat.
Norris was also incredibly well-known for his role as Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger, where he used his martial arts skills against numerous foes. The show finished in 2001 after eight seasons.
In the early 2010s, the actor became somewhat of a meme as 'Chuck Norris facts' jokingly exaggerating his strength would be shared online.
He later joined in by releasing a book called The Official Chuck Norris Fact Book: 101 of Chuck's Favorite Facts and Stories, and making his own jokes in various interviews.
Outside of his acting career, Norris opened martial arts schools, founded the United Fighting Arts Federation, and even developed his own form of karate, known as Chun Kuk Do.
Norris is survived by his second wife, Gena O’Kelley, and his five children.
Topics: Celebrity News, Celebrity
Jess Battison