Action Star Chuck Norris Dies at 86, Family Confirms

Chuck Norris (American martial artist and actor)

Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86. His family shared the news on Friday. He was a famous American martial artist and actor, best known for starring in the TV show Walker, Texas Ranger.

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” the family said in a statement on Instagram.

“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.”

On Thursday, American media reported that Norris had been hospitalized in Kauai for an unknown illness. This came just days after his 86th birthday, which he celebrated by posting a video of himself boxing and joking, "I don’t age. I level up."

In a public statement, his family asked for privacy regarding the details of his death, but shared that he passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loved ones. A true martial arts expert, Norris enjoyed a long career in Hollywood that began with a small role in the 1968 film The Wrecking Crew.