Chuck Norris, the famed martial artist and Hollywood action star, died at the age of 86, his family confirmed. They said he passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, while surrounded by loved ones.
In a statement, his family described him as more than a global icon, calling him a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother whose presence meant everything to them.
“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. 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,” the statement read.
Born in Oklahoma in 1940, Norris served in the United States Air Force before building a name in martial arts. His career took off after an encounter with Bruce Lee, who cast him in the 1972 film The Way of the Dragon, a role that helped launch his Hollywood journey and later led to his fame in Walker, Texas Ranger.
Reports indicated he had been hospitalised in Hawaii before his death, though the family chose not to disclose details, describing the loss as sudden and thanking fans for their prayers and support.
