Artist and martial arts master was admitted to a hospital in Hawaii; family did not provide the cause of death
Actor and martial arts master Chuck Norris died on Thursday morning (19 March 2026), aged 86. He was admitted to a hospital in Hawaii. The family released the information this Friday (20th March) through the artist’s official profile on social media. The cause of death was not disclosed.
The family said Norris was with his family at the time of his death.
“It is with a heavy heart that our family announces the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning. While we wish to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and at peace.”says the statement.
Here is the translation of the statement:
“It is with deep sadness that our family announces the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning. While we wish to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and 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 of people around the world and left a lasting impact on many lives.
“Although our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and 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 grateful for that. To him, you weren’t just fans, you were his friends.”
“We know that many of you have learned of his recent hospitalization, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you have sent him. In the midst of our grief over this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family at this time.
“We thank you for sharing the love he gives us.
“With affection,
The Norris Family”
Repercussion on social media
Known for films like “Delta Command” e “Braddock: The Super Commando” and the series “Walker, Texas Ranger” Playing the role of ranger Cordell Walker in the 1990s, Norris also became a cultural phenomenon on social media thanks to memes that exaggerated his strength and abilities. Since the death was announced, new memes began to circulate, mixing humor and tribute.
“It’s hard to believe that Chuck Norris has passed away. All I can say is that the Devil is screwed and about to get a spinning kick to the head!”, wrote one internet user
Career in cinema and TV
Carlos Ray Norris was born on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, in the United States. He was the son of Ray Norris, a mechanic, and Wilma Scarberry, a homemaker. He was the oldest of 3 brothers.
Norris became known in the 80s for films such as “Delta Command” e “Braddock: The Super Commando”. He also starred in the series “Walker, Texas Ranger” in the role of ranger Cordell Walker, known in Brazil as “The Man of the Law”, shown in the 1990s.
In the late 1960s, the actor began his career in cinema with an uncredited role in “Secret weapon against Matt Helm” (1968), by Phil Karlson, with Dean Martin and Sharon Tate. His first big opportunity came 4 years later with “Flight of the Dragon”directed, written and starring Bruce Lee (1940-1973), martial arts legend.
In recent years, Norris had moved away from the screen. He made occasional appearances, as in “The Expendables 2”launched in 2012.
Martial arts career
Norris enlisted in the US Air Force in 1958. He was sent to the Osan air base, in South Korea. It was there that he gained the nickname Chuck. He began training Tang Soo Do, a martial art known as “Korean karate”.
He developed a passion for martial arts and fighting. He achieved multiple ranks: black belt in judo, 3rd dan black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, 5th dan black belt in karate, 8th dan black belt in taekwondo, 9th dan black belt in tang soo do and 10th dan black belt in chun kuk do.
