Hollywood action legend Chuck Norris dies at 86

Veteran actor and martial arts icon Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86, his family confirmed in a heartfelt statement.

The family said Norris passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, describing his death as sudden while asking for privacy during the period of mourning.

“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, and the heart of our family,” the statement read.

Born in 1940 in Oklahoma, Norris began his journey in the United States Air Force before rising to global prominence in martial arts. Over the years, he became one of the most recognisable figures in the discipline, holding multiple black belts in karate, taekwondo, judo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

His breakthrough in Hollywood came in 1972 when he starred alongside Bruce Lee in Way of the Dragon, a role that propelled him into international stardom. He went on to feature in a string of successful action films, including Missing in Action and Delta Force.

Norris later became a television mainstay with his lead role as Cordell “Cord” Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger, a long-running series that earned him widespread acclaim and a loyal fan base.

Reports indicate that the actor had recently been hospitalised in Hawaii following a medical emergency. While acknowledging this, his family did not disclose the exact cause of death but expressed gratitude for the support and prayers received.

“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” the family added, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire millions around the world.

Norris is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, and five children.

His passing marks the loss of a defining figure in action cinema and martial arts, whose influence spanned decades and crossed generations.