Chuck Norris Passes Away at 86

American actor and martial artist, Chuck Norris, has passed away at the age of 86, ten days after his birthday. The news was confirmed by his family via an Instagram announcement, where they expressed a desire to maintain privacy about the details surrounding his death.

According to the family’s statement, Norris died peacefully while surrounded by loved ones. They described him as an iconic martial artist and actor who was beloved as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

"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," they stated.

The statement further highlighted his unwavering commitment to his family, saying, "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."

Norris’s family expressed deep gratitude for the life he led and the cherished moments they shared with him, acknowledging the love and support he received from fans globally, describing them not just as fans but as friends.

In an earlier report from Thursday, TMZ noted that Norris had been hospitalized in Hawaii following a medical emergency that occurred on Kauai. Although the specifics of his condition were not disclosed, reports suggested that he remained in good spirits while in the hospital.

Chuck Norris, born Carlos Ray ‘Chuck’ Norris on March 10, 1940, was not only a decorated martial artist but also served in the United States Air Force. He earned black belts in several martial arts disciplines, including Karate, Taekwondo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

He gained fame in Hollywood, initially appearing in a minor role in "The Wrecking Crew" (1968) before becoming a leading figure in action cinema after starring alongside Bruce Lee in "The Way of the Dragon" (1972).

Norris went on to become a household name with prominent films like "Delta Force" (1986), "Missing in Action" (1984), and many others throughout his career, which spanned several decades, establishing him as a resilient figure in action films.

His last post on Instagram celebrated his 86th birthday through a video showing him in a sparring session. He expressed his gratitude to fans, stating, "I don’t age. I level up. 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."