Former “Walker, Texas Ranger” star Judson Mills jabbed at the Emmys decision to leave longtime co-star Chuck Norris out of the awards show’s “In Memoriam” segment designed to honor those who have passed away in the last year.
Mills played the role of Francis Gage, opposite Norris, in the final two seasons of “Walker, Texas Ranger” — which spanned nine seasons and 203 episodes total — as well as the 2005 follow-up movie “Trial by Fire.” He told entertainment site TMZ that after realizing Norris had been passed over for the segment, he had to “assume it was just a terrible mistake.”
“My first thought was Gena and the family. And his fans,” Mills said, but said that he believed Norris would not have wanted anyone to be angry about the apparent snub: “I’m confident Chuck would encourage forgiveness. He was an ‘it’s not all about me’ kind of guy.”
Still, Mills said that the omission hurt.
“But for an icon of his stature who impacted not only Hollywood, but the entire world, to see him not receive recognition at all and to see the family not receive that recognition was disappointing … It hurt my feelings for sure. He was a legend for God’s sake,” Mills added.
Norris was not the only name left out of the segment. “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” star Nicholas Brendon was not mentioned — despite the fact that his co-star Anthony Stewart Head was included. Also missing from the segment were “Lilo & Stitch” voice actress Daveigh Chase and “Starship Troopers” actor Patrick Muldoon.
Norris died in March at the age of 86.
“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,” his family said in a statement after his death. “Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”
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