Chuck Norris’ death spurs tributes from celebrities, public figures

Chuck Norris, the martial arts champion and action hero who became one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons through films like “Missing in Action” and the long-running television series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” has died. He was 86.

His family posted a statement Friday saying he died Thursday morning in Hawaii after being hospitalized. “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace,” the family wrote.

The death appeared to come with little warning. On Thursday, a medical emergency occurred on the island of Kauai. Whatever happened occurred quickly — on Wednesday, a friend of Mr. Norris’ was on the phone with him, and he was in good spirits and cracking jokes.

In a statement posted to his Instagram page, the family described Mr. Norris as “a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family,” adding that he “inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”

Tributes from the action film world came swiftly. Dolph Lundgren, who worked alongside Mr. Norris in “The Expendables 2,” paid tribute on Instagram, writing: “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. Someone who had the respect, humility and strength it takes to be a man.”

Sylvester Stallone, another “Expendables” co-star, also honored Mr. Norris in a post, writing: “I had a great time working with Chuck. He was All American in every way. Great man and my condolences to his wonderful family.”

Restaurateur and TV personality Guy Fieri wrote on X that Norris was his “all time favorite” and noted his appreciation for Norris’ iconic style by adding, “Goods guys wear black.”

Actor Joe Piscopo, who starred in the 1992 movie “Sidekicks” alongside Norris, also posted his thoughts on X. “I was honored to work with Chuck. It was a life changing and treasured experience that I will hold dearly in my heart forever,” he wrote. “Sending love, respect and heartfelt condolences to the Norris Family. Rest In Peace, Good Sir.”

Texas Governor Greg Abbott shared a photo of himself with Norris and noted how the beloved actor was a great representation of The Lone Star State. “Texas has lost a legend. All of Texas mourns the passing of Chuck Norris. He was not only a martial arts champion, action icon, and the one and only Walker, Texas Ranger,” wrote Abbott. “But he electrified generations of conservatives. Giving them a passion and voice to fight for the principles that make America the greatest nation on earth. He embodied the toughness, grit, and patriotism that makes Texas supreme.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also posted a photo he took with Norris. “Sara and I were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Chuck Norris, a great friend of Israel and a close personal friend,” he said. “Chuck brought martial arts and the warmth of his character to millions around the world. May his memory be a blessing.”

Mr. Norris’ death is prompting tributes across generations, a reflection not only of his long career in martial arts and television, but of his second life as one of the internet’s earliest and most enduring memes.

Just 10 days before his death, Mr. Norris celebrated his 86th birthday by posting a video on social media showing him sparring with a trainer, declaring, “I don’t age … I level up.”

Born Carlos Ray Norris in Ryan, Oklahoma, on March 10, 1940, he served in the United States Air Force and went on to hold black belts in karate, taekwondo, Tang Soo Do, Brazilian jiu-jitsu and judo. An undefeated six-time World Professional Middleweight Karate champion, he parlayed his martial arts fame into a Hollywood career spanning more than five decades.