Martial arts master and Hollywood tough guy Chuck Norris has died at 86 following a sudden medical emergency in Hawaii, his family announced Thursday.
“He was surrounded by his family and at peace,” the family wrote on Instagram, asking for privacy regarding the circumstances of his passing.
A Life of Discipline, Faith, and Family
The statement honored Norris as a “devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, incredible brother, and the heart of our family.” They said he inspired millions worldwide through his work, kindness, and unwavering commitment to those he loved.
From Walker to Internet Icon
Norris rose to fame in the 1980s with action hits including Walker, Texas Ranger and The Delta Force. A celebrated martial artist and fitness advocate, he remained active into his 80s—posting a birthday workout video earlier this month, declaring, “I don’t age. I level up. I’m 86 today!”
While he mostly stepped away from major acting roles later in life, he made cameos in films like The Expendables 2 and became a viral figure on social media, celebrated in countless memes for his legendary toughness.
Roots and Recognition
Born in Oklahoma in 1940, Norris served in the U.S. Air Force before launching his Hollywood career. He earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989 and became a cult figure in fitness and action cinema.
Tributes Pour In
Family, fans, and public figures mourned his passing. His son Dakota called him a man of “generosity, courage, discipline, and faith.” Texas Governor Greg Abbott noted, “Texas has lost a legend,” praising Norris’s impact as a martial artist, actor, and patriotic figure.
Norris leaves behind his wife Gena O’Kelly, four children, and a global legacy as one of action cinema’s most enduring icons.
