American action star Chuck Norris has been hospitalized in Hawaii for an undisclosed condition, Hollywood news site TMZ reported March 19, citing a source who said the actor was "in good spirits."
Image: Jerry Markland / Getty Images North America / AFP
Martial arts legend and actor Chuck Norris has passed away at the age of 86.
"It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning," the Norris family posted on his Facebook page on Friday.
"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," the family said.
Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives, the family added.
"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."
Norris had been hospitalised in Hawaii for an undisclosed condition, according to a report published by TMZ on Thursday.
According to TMZ, the “emergency” is believed to have taken place on the island of Kauai. No additional information about the nature of the condition or the circumstances leading up to the hospitalisation were disclosed.
Norris turned 86 last week. He marked the occasion by sharing a video on social media in which he was seen boxing.
“I don't age. I level up,” he said in the clip.
In a separate message, he added: “Nothing like some playful action on a sunny day to make you feel young.”
Norris, a martial arts expert turned actor, has built a decades-long career in film and television.
He made his acting debut with a cameo appearance in the 1968 The Wrecking Crew, which starred Dean Martin.
Four years later, he gained widespread attention for his on-screen fight with kung-fu star Bruce Lee in the 1972 film The Way of the Dragon. The scene helped establish Norris as a recognisable figure in action cinema.
He has since appeared in numerous action films and television productions, becoming a well-known name in the genre.
IOL & AFP