Chuck Norris’s friend reveals last call hours before his sudden death at 86, fans still shocked

Chuck Norris, actor and martial arts grandmaster who was famous for roles in “Walker, Texas Ranger” and other shows and movies, has died. He was 86 years old. Norris died Thursday, in what his family described as a “sudden passing.”

Family issues statement

“While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace,” the family said in a statement posted to social media.

“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. 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. We know many of you had heard about his recent hospitalisation, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way.

“As we grieve this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family during this time. Thank you for loving him with us.”

Chuck Norris cause of death update

Hospitalisation before death

Norris had been hospitalized in Hawaii on March 18, a day before his passing. TMZ was first to report about his health struggles. While the exact cause of death has not been disclosed, the family emphasized that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

As soon as the report about Norris’s hospitalization emerged, fans re-shared reports stating that the actor had suffered two heart attacks in 2017. It is unclear if the 86-year-old had a Myocardial infarction.

Chuck Norris Was Training on the Hawaiian Island When He Was Stricken, Reports Say

TMZ also reported on March 19 that the medical emergency appeared to have come out of the blue. “Whatever happened must have occurred quickly, because we’re told on Wednesday he was training on the island … a friend of Chuck’s was on the phone with him, and we’re told Chuck was in good spirits and cracking jokes,” the website wrote.

Norris owns a home on the island.

“Chuck Norris, 86, was reportedly hospitalized at Wilcox Medical Center in Lihue after a medical emergency on Kauai this week. Norris owns a home on the island’s North Shore,” Best of Hawaii reported. “If something serious happens on Kauai, there is one main hospital for acute care, and higher-level treatment can mean transfer off-island.”

Page Six reported that Norris was “rushed” to the hospital.

Who was Chuck Norris?

Born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, he came from humble beginnings before joining the US Air Force in his late teens.

It was during his service in South Korea that he discovered martial arts — a turning point that shaped his life. Norris went on to earn multiple black belts and became a dominant figure in competitive karate during the 1960s.

Norris’ transition to Hollywood was sparked after his association with Bruce Lee, with whom he shared an iconic fight scene in The Way of the Dragon.

That moment catapulted him into global fame and led to a string of action hits, including Missing in Action, The Delta Force and Code of Silence.

He later became a household name through the long-running TV series Walker, Texas Ranger, where his stoic persona and martial arts prowess defined his screen image.