Portes disparus Missing in Action 1984 Real Joseph Zito Chuck Norris. Collection Christophel © The Cannon Group / Golan Globus Productions (Photo by The Cannon Group / Golan Globus / Collection ChristopheL via AFP)

Chuck Norris, the legendary martial artist and Hollywood action star best known for his role in Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86, his family announced on Friday.

In a statement shared on Instagram, his family confirmed that he passed away suddenly on Thursday morning.

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris,” the statement read. “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.”

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They described him as a man who lived with faith, discipline, and purpose, inspiring millions across the globe through his work and personal values.

According to reports, Norris fell ill while on the Hawaiian island of Kauai.

Just days before his passing, the action star had celebrated his 86th birthday, sharing a video of himself boxing and joking, “I don’t age. I level up.”

Norris rose to global fame following his appearance in The Way of the Dragon, where his fight scene with Bruce Lee became one of the most iconic moments in martial arts cinema.

From his early debut in The Wrecking Crew to a long career in action films and television, Norris left a lasting legacy as one of the most recognizable figures in the genre.

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