‘Chuck was an icon’: Schwarzenegger, Dolph Lundgren lead tributes to Chuck Norris after his death

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The world of cinema and martial arts is mourning the loss of iconic martial artist and legendary action star Chuck Norris following his death at age 86.

Norris died in Hawaii on Thursday, March 19, after a medical emergency, prompting an outpouring of grief from his peers and fans alike.

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone recruited Norris to star in his action sequel 'The Expendables 2' in 2012 and remembered him as a true American. He took to Instagram and said, “I had a great time working with Chuck. He was All American in every way. Great man and my condolences to his wonderful family.”

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger also took down to X to pay tribute to Norris, noting the various ways their professional lives intertwined over the years.

“Chuck was an icon. I am grateful that I was able to work with him in multiple ways over the years, from promoting fitness to sharing the screen together. He was a bada**, in real life and in Hollywood. His legend will be with us forever. My thoughts are with his family,” he wrote. 

Dolph Lundgren

Action star Dolph Lundgren, known for playing Soviet boxer Ivan Drago in Rocky IV, starred alongside Norris in 'The Expendables 2'. He reflected on the deep personal impact Norris had on his own journey, writing on Instagram, “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.”

Jean-Claude Van Damme

Belgian martial arts star Jean-Claude Van Damme has posted his own tribute to Norris, sharing a connection that dates back decades. He wrote, “Deepest condolences on the passing of my friend, Chuck Norris. 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.”

George W Bush

Former President George W Bush also issued a statement following Norris' death, highlighting his philanthropic work. 

"Laura and I are saddened by Chuck Norris’s passing. He was a legend in Texas and beyond. Through his foundation and his example, he made a huge difference in the lives of young people by instilling character and discipline through martial arts. It was said that when Chuck Norris entered a room, he didn’t turn the lights on; he turned the dark off. Laura and I are fortunate to have called him a friend, and we send our sympathy to his family," the 79-year-old wrote. 

Danny Trejo

Action actor Danny Trejo also took to X to express his sorrow over the loss of a man he considered a true original.

He wrote, "My heart is heavy hearing about the passing of my friend the legendary Chuck Norris. He was truly one of a kind the real deal. I’ve never met a nicer person in my life. Not only was he a bada**, but he was a good man through and through. One of the greats, without question. My thoughts are with the Norris family."

Mario Lopez

Actor and television Host Mario Lopez wrote on X, referencing the invincible aura that defined the actor's public persona, "Chuck Norris didn't die, he just completed his mission & went to rest…#RestWellLegend."

Gina Carano

Actress and mixed martial artist Gina Carano also wrote a brief but poignant message to honor his legacy: "Rest in peace to a great man, there will never be anyone like him. Chuck Norris."