Chuck Norris has died aged 86, his family has confirmed.
An announcement on Chuck Norris’ Instagram page revealed the action movie legend died yesterday morning in Hawaii. Just last week, Norris posted a video to social media, below, showing him beating up an opponent. “I don’t age. I level up,” he said, celebrating his 86th birthday. “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.”
In the statement below, the Norris family called Norris’ death “sudden,” adding that while the circumstances were being kept private, the much-loved martial artist and actor “was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”
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.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 hospitalization, 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
Norris became a household name in the 80s, having played a villain in 1972 Bruce Lee classic, The Way of the Dragon. Notable Norris movies include 1979’s A Force of One, 1980’s, The Octagon, and 1981’s An Eye for an Eye (1981). 1984’s Missing in Action spawned a trilogy, and 1986’s The Delta Force propelled his star status further.
Moving into the 90s, Norris played the title role in CBS television series Walker, Texas Ranger, with his last major film appearance in 2012’s The Expendables 2.
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Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images.
Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
