Chuck Norris dies at 86 after medical emergency in Hawaii

The actor’s Instagram page confirmed Norris’ death on Friday, March 20.

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

“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,” it concluded.

The actor, who turned 86 earlier this month, was hospitalised in Hawaii on Thursday, March 19, TMZ reported.

This came just days after Norris celebrated his birthday with an Instagram post of himself boxing and training on March 10.

Norris served in the US Air Force and went on to win multiple martial arts championships.

The Delta Force actor is a black belt in Karate, Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Judo.

Norris founded his own discipline, Chun Kuk Do, and he went on to train celebrities in martial arts.

His late friend, actor and martial artist Bruce Lee, cast him as villain Colt in 1972’s The Way of the Dragon, and late Hollywood legend Steve McQueen then encouraged Norris to continue acting.

His most popular role came in 1993 as the titular character Ranger Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger.

After the CBS show ended in 2001, Chuck continued playing lead roles in movies until 2006, while his last major film appearance came in 2012 with The Expendables 2.