Chuck Norris Death: Akshay Kumar Pays Emotional Tribute, Says ‘He Shaped A Part Of Me Forever’

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has honoured Hollywood action star Chuck Norris after Norris died at 86. The death was confirmed by the family on Instagram, which stated that Norris died on Thursday morning, 19 March 2026, following a recent hospitalisation, prompting tributes from fans worldwide.

Akshay shared how Norris helped shape Akshay's approach to life and work, especially during Akshay's early years. Akshay tweeted, "Growing up as a martial artist, watching Chuck Norris in Way of the Dragon, Missing in Action and many more wasn't just entertainment…it was education." Akshay added, "The discipline, strength, and that effortless command he brought on screen stayed with me. Grateful for the inspiration that shaped a part of me (sic)."

Akshay Kumar and Chuck Norris influence on action cinema

Akshay has long spoken about martial arts legends who guided Akshay's style in Indian action cinema. Akshay has often mentioned Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jean-Claude Van Damme as major influences. Their timing, agility, and confident presence helped Akshay design fight scenes that focus on precision and physical commitment.

Before films, Akshay built a strong martial arts base that later supported Akshay's acting career. Akshay trained for years in Karate and earned a black belt, while also studying Taekwondo. Akshay has said this training improved discipline, maintained fitness, and allowed Akshay to perform complicated stunts without relying on a body double.

Akshay Kumar, Chuck Norris and martial arts journey

Interest in Akshay's early days returned after a 1990s video resurfaced on Reddit, shared by a fan. The clip shows Akshay describing the path into show business, recalling, "I came to Bombay to teach martial arts and I was teaching and suddenly I found myself in the fashion world. I was doing fashion shows and modelling, and very soon, I came into films. The rest is history."

Norris' death at 86, announced by the family on Instagram, highlighted Norris' long link with martial artists worldwide. The post stated that Norris died on the morning of 19 March 2026 after a recent hospitalisation. For many Indian viewers, Akshay's message underlined how Norris' screen work continued to guide performers in other film industries.

Akshay's tribute placed Norris among the figures who quietly shaped Akshay's journey from martial arts instructor to film star. By crediting Norris' "discipline, strength, and effortless command," Akshay connected Norris' legacy with the values behind Akshay's own action roles, reflecting how one actor's craft influenced another across continents and decades.