Hollywood Pays Tribute to Chuck Norris: Fond Words from Jean-Claude Van Damme, Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, and Others
Jean-Claude Van Damme, Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, and Stephen King are among the notable figures honoring Chuck Norris, the legendary action film star known for his role in Walker, Texas Ranger, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 86.
Despite not appearing in films together, a young Jean-Claude Van Damme trained with Norris in martial arts for nearly two years during the early 1980s, before his own acting career gained momentum.
“Deepest condolences on the passing of my friend, Chuck Norris,” Van Damme wrote on Instagram, accompanied by a photo montage of the two. “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. 🥋🙏🏼💔”
Stallone and Lundgren collaborated with Norris on The Expendables 2 in 2012, a film directed by Stallone that featured all three actors.
In his tribute, Stallone expressed, “I had a great time working with Chuck. He was All American in every way. Great man and my condolences to his wonderful family.”
Dolph Lundgren shared his admiration on Instagram, stating, “Chuck Norris is the champ. Ever since I was a young martial artist and later getting into movies, I always looked up to him as a role model. Someone who had the respect, humility, and strength it takes to be a man. We will miss you, my friend.”
Stephen King also honored Norris, recalling the humor surrounding his persona. On X, he shared two of his favorite jokes about Norris: “Chuck doesn’t flush the toilet; he scares the shit out of it,” and “When he was born, Chuck Norris drove his mother home from the hospital.” He also reflected warmly, stating, “Seriously, I thought he was great. SILENT RAGE scared hell out of my boys…and me.”
Actor Lorenzo Lamas paid his respects as well, commending Norris for his martial arts prowess. Having trained at a Los Angeles studio linked to Norris, Lamas wrote, “My prayers to Gina, Aaron, and family. Watch out evil world, there is an angel of consequence at the gates. Chuck Norris doesn’t just get wings, he gets even.”
