Actor and conservative political figure Chuck Norris has died at age 86. The tough, silent face of a very specific idea of heroism passed away Thursday after a brief hospitalization in Hawaii. His family announced the news on social media Friday, saying “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,” the post continued. “To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.”
Chuck Norris demonstrated a longevity rare in the genre as a performer and martial arts champion. Born Carlos Ray Norris in Oklahoma, he collected black belts in a variety of disciplines, from judo to taekwondo, eventually founding his own style, Chun Kuk Do.
By the 1970s and 1980s he had become one of the most recognizable faces in American action, with such titles as The Way of the Dragon, Good Guys Wear Black, and Lone Wolf McQuade. It was a cinema devoid of irony, built on simple stories in which Norris presented a stripped-down idea of heroism.
The general television audience knew him best through Walker, Texas Ranger, a series that aired from 1993 to 2001, and turned him into an international pop icon.
Over time, Norris also became a web phenomenon, the subject of memes and jokes that parodied his image of invincibility. He also spoke openly about conservative issues, publishing books focused on faith, right-wing beliefs, and a very particular idea of patriotism.
According to his 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,” his family said. “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.”
Originally published in Vanity Fair Italy
