Iconic action star Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86.
The news was shared on his Instagram page Friday morning with an update from his family.
“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” the statement said. “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”
“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.”
“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives,” the post concluded.
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Earlier this week, it was reported by TMZ that Norris had been hospitalized in Hawaii, but few details were available at the time. The actor had just celebrated his 86th birthday this month and shared videos of himself boxing.
“I’m 86 today! Nothing like some playful action on a sunny day to make you feel young. I’m grateful for another year, good health and the chance to keep doing what I love. Thank you all for being the best fans in the world. Your support through the years has meant more to me than you’ll ever know,” he shared at the time.
Norris, an Air Force veteran, followed up his service to the country by becoming a karate instructor. He became competitive in the sport and met student Steve McQueen, who encouraged him to break into acting.
Also in the martial arts world Norris was introduced to Bruce Lee and became friends with him. Lee cast Norris in “The Way of the Dragon” (1972) and set him on the path to stardom.
Some other notable Norris films over the decades include “Good Guys Wear Black” (1978), “A Force of One” (1979), “Lone Wolf McQuade” (1983), “Missing in Action” (1984), “Code of Silence” (1985), “Missing in Action 2: The Beginning” (1985), “The Delta Force” (1986), “Delta Force 2” (1990), and “Sidekicks” (1992).
He also broke into television, starring in “Walker, Texas Ranger” on CBS beginning in 1993.
Norris is known and beloved by his legions of fans, including more recent fans who know him from becoming a meme reflecting toughness. Per People, his favorite of these was, “They wanted to put Chuck Norris’ face on Mount Rushmore. But the granite wasn’t hard enough for his beard.”
The martial arts legend was also a lifelong Republican and endorsed Donald Trump for president in 2016.
Norris was married to his high school sweetheart in 1958 and divorced in 1989. They shared two sons together. The actor also had a daughter following an extramarital affair. He married Gena O’Kelley in 1998 and had twins with her in 2001.
He is survived by his wife and children.
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