Actor Chuck Norris, who was martial arts master and starred in the television series "Walker, Texas Ranger," as well as films such as "The Delta Force" and "The Hitman," died Thursday, March 19, according to his IMDb profile. He was 86 years old.
Norris was reportedly hospitalized on Kauaʻi this week, according to Hawaiʻi News Now.
“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” shared his Instagram account on Friday, March 20. “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”
Norris’ account has about 3 million followers. He was best known for his roles in action movies and television shows.
Norris was also a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion and founded the Chuck Norris System, a Korean-based style of karate.
He joined the Air Force after graduating high school and served in Korea where he began to study the martial art Tang Soo Do. After returning home, he worked for Northrop Aviation and moonlighted as a karate instructor.
Norris was one of a handful of Americans to achieve eighth-degree black belt status in Tae-Kwon-Do, according to IMDb. He also had a 10th degree black belt in Tang Soo Do.
“To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength,” shared the statement from his Instagram account. “To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.
The family statement also noted reports of a recent hospitalization.
“We know many of you had heard about his recent hospitalization, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way,” shared the family. “As we grieve this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family during this time. Thank you for loving him with us.”
A little over a week earlier, on Tuesday, March 10, Norris shared a statement on Instagram announcing he was 86 years old.
“I don’t age,” wrote the matial artist, as he demonstrated some of his moves in a backyard with palm trees. “I level up.”
Other recent posts show him riding a horse and hanging out with his dogs. Lone Wolf Ranch, a dog food company founded by Chuck Norris, took to Instagram to share about its founder.
“Today we thank Chuck for everything he did for this country,” shared the post. “He was a true patriot, and a champion for dogs and the people who love them.”
Norris also posted on social media about being in Kauaʻi in July of 2025.
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Katie Helland can be reached at katie@alohastatedaily.com.
