Newsroom
Chuck Norris, the 86-year-old martial artist and action movie star, has died following a sudden medical emergency in Hawaii, his family confirmed on social media Thursday.
The actor, famous for roles in Walker, Texas Ranger, The Way of the Dragon, Missing in Action, and The Delta Force, was hospitalized in Kauai, though the exact nature of the incident was not disclosed. His family said he was surrounded by loved ones and at peace.
“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris,” the statement read. “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, and the heart of our family.”
Norris first rose to fame in the 1970s, notably appearing alongside Bruce Lee in Way of the Dragon. He went on to star in numerous successful action films and gained renewed fame in the 2000s thanks to the popular “Chuck Norris Facts” internet memes.
Earlier this month, Norris celebrated his 86th birthday and was reportedly in good health, training and sparring with friends in Hawaii just days before his death. Fans around the world have taken to social media to share condolences and celebrate his life, often joking about his legendary toughness.
“Rest easy, Chuck! We lost an American legend today,” one fan wrote, reflecting the deep impact Norris had both on screen and online.
