Chuck Norris, Hollywood action star, dies at 86

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HAWAII: Chuck Norris, the former martial arts champion and 1980s action-film hero, has died at the age of 86. In a statement posted to Instagram on Friday, his family described the actor's passing as sudden.

"It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning," the family wrote. While requesting privacy regarding the specific circumstances, the statement noted that Mr. Norris was surrounded by his family and was at peace.

According to reports, the actor had been hospitalised in Hawaii since Thursday for unknown causes. The news comes just nine days after Mr. Norris celebrated his 86th birthday by sharing a video of himself sparring, accompanied by the caption: "I don’t age. I level up."

Before becoming a household name on the small screen, Mr.Norris was a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate Champion from 1968 to 1974. He rose to international cinematic fame in the 1980s through a series of action hits, including Code of Silence, Missing in Action, and The Delta Force.

He further cemented his status as a cultural icon by starring in the popular television series Walker, Texas Ranger from 1993 to 2001, where he portrayed a principled lawman. In his later years, his "tough-guy" persona inspired a global internet phenomenon through "Chuck Norris Facts" memes, which he often embraced with good-natured grace.

Tributes have poured in from around the world. Texas Governor Greg Abbott stated on X that "Texas has lost a legend," referencing the actor’s portrayal of the state’s most famous law enforcement agency. Fellow action star Sylvester Stallone also paid tribute, calling Mr. Norris a "great man" and an "All American in every way."

Born Carlos Ray Norris in 1940, the Oklahoma native first began his martial arts training while stationed in South Korea with the U.S. Air Force. He later opened a chain of karate schools in California, training celebrities like Steve McQueen, who eventually encouraged him to pursue acting.

Mr. Norris is survived by his wife, Gena O'Kelley, and his five children. The family expressed deep gratitude for the support of fans, stating, "Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions and left a lasting impact on so many lives."

Photo Credits: AFP