Chuck Norris, a beloved martial artist and action star, has passed away. He was 86. Fans, UFC fighters, and former co-stars shared heartfelt tributes and condolences to his family.
Norris built a legacy through roles in the Missing in Action franchise, and the hit series Walker, Texas Ranger. He trained in martial arts for most of his life, earning black belts in Karate, Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Judo. He showcased his skills in The Way of The Dragon, where he fought Bruce Lee in a legendary scene.
Early this morning, his family shared a statement on social media and confirmed his passing.
“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,” his family wrote in a statement. “He was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a beloved husband, a loving father and grandfather, and incredible brother, and the heart of our family.”
Norris’ family also thanks fans for their support following news of his hospitalization.
“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.”
Tributes Pour In for Chuck Norris
Chuck Norris earned admiration and respect across the entertainment, martial arts, and fitness community. Many of his former co-stars and friends shared fond memories and honored his legacy. Norris’ co-stars in The Expendables 2 expressed their condolences.
Sylvester Stallone, who recruited Norris for a cameo role in The Expendables 2, wrote:
“I had a great time working with Chuck. He was All American in every way. Great man and my condolences to his wonderful family.”
Jean Claude Van Damme also shared his condolences and praised Norris.
“Deepest condolences on the passing of my friend,” Van Damme wrote on Instagram. “We knew each other from my early days, and I always respected the man he was. My heart and prayers are with his family. He will never be forgotten.”
Dolph Lundgren credited Norris as a major influence on his career and life.
“Chuck Norris is the champ. Ever since I was a young martial artist and later getting into movies, I always looked up to him as a role model,” he wrote on Instagram. “Someone who had the respect, humility and strength it takes to be a man. We will miss you, my friend.”
UFC Stars React to Norris’ Death
In addition to Hollywood stars, members of the MMA community also shared tributes. UFC welterweight Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson and former two-division UFC champion Randy Couture were among them.
Thompson credited Norris for the impact he had on his childhood.
“Oh no! I can’t believe it!” Thompson wrote in the comment section of the Norris family’s statement. “You helped shape my childhood as a martial artist! You will forever be missed! Legend!”
Couture, who also appeared with Norris in The Expendables 2, wrote:
“Chuck was the best of us for sure. He will be missed! Rest in peace brother.”
Former two-division UFC champion Georges St-Pierre wrote:
“Today we lost a legend, someone who deeply inspired me. My heart and condolences go out to his family. Rest in peace.”
UFC Hall of Famer Bas Rutten also shared his admiration for Norris.
“A man, who I always greatly admired, unfortunately passed away at the age of 86. The man, the myth, the legend,” Rutten wrote on Instagram. “What a man’s man Chuck was. Damn, I never got to meet him, I was always praying we would run into each other somewhere.”
Chuck Norris Passes Away: Tributes Pour In for Beloved Martial Artist and Actor