Action icon Chuck Norris has passed away at the age of 86. According to Variety, the legendary star, widely known for his role in the Texas Ranger series, had been hospitalized in Hawaii on Thursday, March 19, local time. His family released a statement on Friday, March 20, confirming that Chuck Norris died that morning, taking his last breath peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. “While we wish to keep the details private, please know that he was surrounded by family and was at peace,” the family’s statement read.
Chuck Norris Through the Eyes of His Family
To the world, his family acknowledged, Norris was recognized as a formidable martial artist, a charismatic actor, and an enduring symbol of strength. However, they revealed a more intimate side: “To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an extraordinary brother, and the very heart of our family.” The family further shared that Norris lived a life defined by unwavering faith, clear purpose, and steadfast commitment to those he cherished. “Through his work, his remarkable discipline, and his inherent kindness, he inspired millions across the globe and left a profound impact on countless lives,” their statement concluded.
Norris’s illustrious career included starring roles in a host of iconic action films such as The Delta Force, Missing in Action, Good Guys Wear Black, The Octagon, Lone Wolf McQuade, Code of Silence, and Firewalker. Beyond his solo ventures, Norris famously shared the screen with the legendary Bruce Lee in the classic martial arts film The Way of the Dragon, also known as Return of the Dragon. A true martial arts pioneer, Norris held an impressive array of black belts across various disciplines: Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (3rd degree), Karate (5th degree), Taekwondo (8th degree), Tang Soo Do (9th degree), and Chun Kuk Do (10th degree).