**Action Star Chuck Norris Dies at 86** Chuck Norris, the renowned US martial artist and Hollywood actor, has passed away at the age of 86. According to his family, Norris died on Friday, with his family releasing a statement on Instagram. Born into a family of athletes, Norris began his acting career with a cameo in the 1968 film *The Wrecking Crew*, starring Dean Martin. His subsequent roles in action films cemented his status as a Hollywood icon. One of his most notable performances was in the 1972 film *The Way of The Dragon*, where he engaged in an epic fight with kung fu superstar Bruce Lee. This fight scene helped establish Norris as a household name, both on the big and small screens. In a statement released on Instagram, Norris's family expressed their grief at his sudden passing. "It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning," they said. The family also highlighted Norris's multifaceted personality, describing him as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of their family. "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 had been hospitalized on the island of Kauai for an undisclosed condition just days after celebrating his 86th birthday. In a video posted on social media, Norris had expressed his defiance of aging, saying "I don't age. I level up." The phrase has become a testament to Norris's enduring legacy and spirit.