Actor and martial arts expert Chuck Norris died on Thursday at the age of 86, and the news sparked a wave of emotional reactions from figures in politics, film and culture.
The death of Chuck Norris brought many messages of tribute from political leaders and celebrities who knew or admired him throughout his career, according to Agerpres.
US President Donald Trump spoke about the actor, saying that “a was a great guy. He was a good guy, very tough. You wouldn’t want to fight him, I tell you. He was a tough, great guy, a great supporter.”
For his part, Texas Governor Gregg Abbott emphasized the impact Norris had on the state: “Texas has lost a legend. All of Texas mourns the death of Chuck Norris. It was not just a martial arts legendbut also the one and only Walker, the Texas cop. It excited generations of conservatives. It gave them a passion and a voice to fight for the principles that make America the greatest nation on earth.”
He added that the actor “he embodied the toughness, fortitude and patriotism that make Texas unsurpassed”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu relayed that Norris “he was a great friend of Israel and a close personal friend”, adding that “Chuck brought martial arts and the warmth of his character to millions around the globe.”
Reactions from the world of film and culture
Actor Sylvester Stallone recalled working with Norris: “I worked very well with Chuck. He was a true American in every way. A great man.”
Writer Stephen King recalled the impact of a famous film: “I thought it was great. ‘Silent Rage’ scared the hell out of my boys… and me.”
Belgian actor Jean-Claude van Damme said: “We’ve known each other since we were young and I’ve always respected him for his character.”
Dolph Lundgren also wrote: “Chuck Norris is a champion. Ever since I was a young martial artist, after which I started making films, I always looked up to him as a role model. Someone who shows the respect, modesty and strength needed to be a man.”
“An Unmatched Legend”
“Cobra Kai” co-creator Jon Hurwitz described it as straight “a peerless legend“, adding that “Chuck Norris occupies a prominent place in the pantheon of American martial arts“.
In a note characteristic of the humor associated with the actor, radio host Glenn Beck wrote: “The legend, Chuck Norris, has passed away. And also, breaking news, Death was found breathless after trying to take Chuck Norris to the afterlife”.
Actor and presenter Mario Lopez, for his part, sent a symbolic message: “Chuck Norris didn’t die, he just finished his mission and went to rest.”
