Chuck Norris has sadly passed away ‘suddenly’, having left his final message to fans via a social media post just one week ago.
The martial artist and actor has been active on Instagram for some time, posting his life, throw-back pictures from projects he worked on, and many instances of him riding horses like a true Oklahoman.
But it was just today (20 March) that the unfortunate news came that he had passed away after being hospitalised following a medical emergency in Hawaii.
The Walker, Texas Ranger actor’s death was announced by his family, who wrote of his life, work, and legacy in the big and small screens.
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Currently, the circumstances surrounding his death are unknown, and the details have not been revealed to the public as of yet.
Just recently, the star commemorated his birthday on 10 March by posting a video to his Instagram account.
In it, you can see The Way of the Dragon actor sparring with a partner, as he tells the camera: “I don’t age. I level up.”
In the caption, he said he was ‘grateful’ for his ‘good health’ and ‘another year’ of life, writing: “I’m 86 today! Nothing like some playful action on a sunny day to make you feel young. I’m grateful for another year, good health and the chance to keep doing what I love. Thank you all for being the best fans in the world. Your support through the years has meant more to me than you’ll ever know.”
Sadly, he would pass away just nine days later.
Since the news broke, people continued the years-long meme of naming Norris as someone who takes orders from nobody, with one person writing under his last post: “He didn't die he told death he was coming.”
Last week, someone else quipped: “Chuck Norris doesn’t blow out his candles. He suffocates them with the weight of his stare.”
It’s a meme that has been around as long as social media, carried on by his horde of fans.
How did Chuck Norris become famous and how did he become a meme?
Chuck Norris is an 80s action movie star most famous for Code of Silence, Lone Wolf McQuade and Invasion U.S.A.
He wasn't just a tough guy in front of the camera. He'd served in the US Air Force, and was a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, judo and Tang Soo Do.
He even invented a new martial arts style - Chun Kuk Do - and went toe-to-toe with Bruce Lee in some spectacular fights in The Way of the Dragon.
Later in his career, he also appeared in Dodgeball and Expendables 2.
As for how he became a meme, ESPN reports it was actually all down to high school senior Ian Spector in 2005.
While bored, Spector came across a comment thread on Reddit precursor SomethingAwful.com titled 'Facts about Vin Diesel', and was amused to see the facts were things like 'Vin Diesel counted to infinity - twice' and 'Superman wears Vin Diesel pajamas to bed'.
Spector made a website called 4Q.cc, which would randomly generate these kinds of 'facts' around Vin Diesel. When he asked which celebrity he should do next, people overwhelmingly voted for Chuck Norris.
The website absolutely exploded and the meme has gone on to have a life of its own.
Full statement from Chuck Norris' family
Norris' family, announcing the tragedy, wrote of the impact his death has had on them, and the mark he has left on the world.
They 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 said.
"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."
Britt Jones