Action star and martial artist Chuck Norris has died, his family said Friday. He was 86.
Norris' family said on Instagram that his death was sudden but that "he was surrounded by his family and was at peace." He had been hospitalized recently. The family said they wanted to keep the circumstances of his death private and did not share any updates about the cause.
"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 wrote. "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."
Norris was born Carlos Ray Norris in Oklahoma on March 10, 1940, and his family moved to California when he was 12. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, where he began practicing martial arts.