By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: Columbia TriStar Television / Alamy file
Chuck Norris, the actor and martial artist known for the long-running television series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” has died, according to his family. He was 86 years old.
Aside from the series, Norris performed in numerous action movies. Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Norris gave moviegoers memories that will last a lifetime. Norris was a popular figure and an easy person to root for. He brought an essence of great character and good attitude through the screen and off-screen.
Many of his colleagues are mourning his death. One of them is the great Sylvester Stallone, with whom he worked on The Expendables 2.
“I had a great time working with Chuck,” Stallone said. “He was All-American in every way. Great man, and my condolences to his wonderful family.”
Martial artist and actor Jean-Claude Van Damme also took the time to share some kind words and memories of his former colleague. Van Damme wrote on social media and sent his family prayers.
“Deepest condolences on the passing of my friend, Chuck Norris,” Van Damme said. “We knew each other from my early days, and I always respected the man he was. My heart and prayers are with his family. He will never be forgotten.”
Norris was in Hawaii when he passed away. He was rushed to the hospital on Thursday. He made a statement on Friday morning to notify everyone about the man they loved and the fans who appreciated him.
“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.”
Norris success speaks for itself. He was a tremendous fighter. He will be joining Bruce Lee up in heaven to put on another show. Norris was a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion. Not many people know this about Norris, but he’s the founder of the United Fighting Arts Federation. The Chun Kuk Do is a style of karate that Norris implemented.
There’s one movie where Norris didn’t have a big role, but he made an important cameo, and it’s memorable. The movie is Dodgeball: The True Underdog Story, starring Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughn.
Norris cast the deciding vote that allowed Average Joes to play in the championship of the Las Vegas International Dodgeball Open, where they upset the heavily favored Globo Gym Purple Cobras.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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