Action legends Sylvester Stallone, Jean-Claude Van Damme pay tribute to 'Expendables' co-star Chuck Norris

Van Damme, 65, shared a series of images of himself and Norris with the caption: 

"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."

Meanwhile, Lundgren hailed the "Walker, Texas Ranger" star as "the champ" in his tribute.

The Rocky IV star, 68, captioned a photo of the pair: "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."

Norris' family announced the "sudden passing" of the "Delta Force" actor on Friday, March, 20, 2026.

They wrote in a statement on Chuck's Instagram account: 

"It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning.

"While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.

"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' family paid tribute to the way he "lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved."

The statement continued: "Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives."

Norris died after being hospitalized for an undisclosed medical emergency and had boasted he "don't age. I level up" in an Instagram post to mark his 86th birthday on March 10.

Posting a video of him boxing with his trainer, who he knocks to the ground with a stiff body shot, under the header "I don't age. I level up", he wrote: "I’m 86 today! Nothing like some playful action on a sunny day to make you feel young. I’m grateful for another year, good health and the chance to keep doing what I love. Thank you all for being the best fans in the world. Your support through the years has meant more to me than you’ll ever know.

"God Bless, Chuck Norris."