Martial artist and actor Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86, his family has announced on Instagram.
In a post on Instagram, they said: “It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning.
“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.
“While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him.
“The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends.
“We know many of you had heard about his recent hospitalisation, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way.
“As we grieve this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family during this time. Thank you for loving him with us.”
Figures have been paying tribute to Chuck Norris online.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on X, calling Norris “a great friend of Israel and a close personal friend”.
Meanwhile, Mike Huckabee, the US ambassador to Israel, said Norris’ passing the “saddest piece of news I’ve heard in a while”.
Posting on Instagram, British strongman competitor Eddie Hall wrote that he was “gutted” by Norris’ passing.
“Absolute legend of a man, we just started to message each other a little on here and was hoping to meet him someday,” he wrote.
“He just turned 86 and looked fantastic.”
Reporting History sees journalists join News At Ten anchor Tom Bradby to revisit their remarkable on-the-day reports of the defining events of the modern age. Listen to the episodes below…
