Action star Chuck Norris dead at 86
Hollywood action star Chuck Norris has died aged 86.
In a statement, his family shared on Instagram, “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.”
Their statement 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.”
They then said of Norris’ character, “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.”
The Norris family also thanked fans for supporting him throughout his career as he moved from martial arts to acting and became a high-profile cinematic figure, adding, “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 hospitalization, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way,” they also noted.
The Norris family concluded the statement by asking “for privacy for our family during this time and “thank you for loving him with us.”
No cause of death has been revealed.
News of his death comes 24 hours after reports that Norris was hospitalised in Hawaii. The medical emergency, which has now proved fatal, took place on March 19th on the island of Kauai.
Norris had largely been retired from the acting business for the last 20 years. His final film appearance is in the upcoming Australian action film, Zombie Plane, which is slated to arrive later this year.
Before making his way in the acting business, Norris began his adult life by serving in the United States Air Force, which is where he first started learning martial arts. Upon being discharged, he opened a martial arts studio and began competing at a high standard.
It was through martial arts that he became friends with Bruce Lee, who he starred alongside in 1972 in the action movie, The Way of the Dragon. From there, Norris established himself as a star in the action genre, and continued to work profusely for three decades after being encouraged to take acting classes by mentor Steve McQueen in 1974.
The most notable roles of his career include Good Guys Wear Black, which was a huge cinematic hit in 1978, and the successful TV show, Walker, Texas Ranger.
During the later years of his life, Norris became an early meme, before that word was in the popular lexicon, thanks to the invention of Chuck Norris Facts, which played on the perceived toughness and strength of the characters that he played on screen.
Norris was also an outspoken conservative, Republican and gun-rights activist. In 2012, Norris courted controversy when he stated that gay people don’t belong in the Boy Scouts of America.
Then, in 2018, he supported Roy Moore, who tried to block same-sex weddings in Alabama, in his bid for the Senate, stating, “Judge Roy Moore is the real deal: He’s tough, tested, and has a spine of steel.”
Norris is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, who he married in 1998. They share twins, Dakota and Danilee. He is also survived by his children, Mike, Eric and Dina, from previous relationships.
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