Trending Now: Chuck Norris, ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ star and martial artist, dies at 86 – Fans React

Chuck Norris, longtime actor and martial artist, has died, his family said in a statement Friday. He was 86.

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” the family said. “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”

Norris was hospitalized in Hawaii earlier this week after an undisclosed medical emergency, according to TMZ.

“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,” the family said. “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.”

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, who turned 86 on March 10, posted an Instagram video on his birthday showing him sparring with a trainer.

“I don’t age. I level up,” he wrote in a caption. “I’m 86 today! Nothing like some playful action on a sunny day to make you feel young. I’m grateful for another year, good health, and the chance to keep doing what I love. Thank you all for being the best fans in the world. Your support through the years has meant more to me than you’ll ever know.”

Born Carlos Ray Norris in Ryan, Oklahoma, he learned martial arts while serving in the U.S. Air Force in South Korea in the late 1950s.

After returning to the United States, Norris competed in martial arts competitions and opened his own studio, training celebrity clients including Steve McQueen.

Norris got his first big break in Hollywood in 1972, appearing opposite Bruce Lee in Way of the Dragon.

He went on to star in a steady stream martial arts movies and action films, including Breaker! Breaker! (1977), Good Guys Wear Black (1978), A Force of One (1979), The Octagon (1980), An Eye for an Eye (1981), Silent Rage (1982) and Missing in Action (1984), Missing in Action 2 (1985), The Delta Force (1986) and Firewalker (1986).

Also read: Chuck Norris: 5 of the greatest fight scenes from his legendary career

His television career took off in 1993 with the debut of Walker, Texas Ranger. The show ran for eight full seasons on CBS.

Norris continued making films during and after TV success. The last mainstream movie he appeared in was The Expendables 2, in 2012.

He also appeared with Christie Brinkley in a long-running series of cable TV infomercials promoting fitness equipment.

Norris had five children: two from his first marriage to Dianne Holechek; and one from an extramarital relationship during their marriage; and two with his wife, Gena Kelley, who he had been married to since 1998.

He also had more than a dozen grandchildren.

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