Chuck Norris dies aged 86

Actor and martial artist Chuck Norris has died at 86. His death was announced by his family via an Instagram post.

On March 19, Norris was reportedly hospitalised on the Hawaiian island of Kauai after suffering a medical emergency.

His family declined to share the circumstances of his passing.

The actor turned 86 last week, marking the event with a video of him boxing on social media, saying he's "grateful for another year and good health".

His family brought to social media after his passing: "It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning."

"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."

In the social media post, the actor's family added he was surrounded by his loved ones when he passed, asking fans for privacy during the time of grieve.

Norris started out in the entertainment industry as a martial arts fighter and celebrity instructor. He moved to film and TV in the late '60s, starring in projects like 1968's The Wrecking Crew and 1972's The Way of The Dragon, where he fights Bruce Lee. The actor made his last film appearance as himself in the Australian action comedy film Zombie Plane, due out later this year.

Several entertainment and martial arts personalities have paid tribute to Chuck Norris online, including Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, Priscilla Presley, and Lee Majors.

Chuck Norris is survived by his late wife Gena O'Kelley and his five children.

See the Instagram post below:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Chuck Norris (@chucknorris)