Chuck Norris Jason Merritt/Getty Images Chuck Norris’ family is urging everyone to not believe everything they see online regarding his death.
In a statement shared in a story on Norris’ official Instagram, the family criticized the AI-generated posts circulating about the actor following his death on March 19. The martial arts champion and action star died suddenly in Hawaii after being hospitalized, his family announced in a statement at the time.
“We are aware that since Chuck’s passing, there have been a number of AI-generated videos and posts circulating online that contain false and misleading information regarding the circumstances of his passing, his health history, and who was present,” the family wrote.
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The statement continued: “These claims are entirely untrue. This includes fabricated reports of past medical issues, as well as false narratives surrounding family relationships.”
“We kindly ask that you do not believe or share any information unless it comes directly from the Norris family or an official family representative,” they ended their statement with. “Thank you for your understanding and for continuing to keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.”
The family did not specify which posts they were referring to. However, following Norris’ death, AI photos claimed to be taken during Norris’ funeral circulated online. In the fake images, Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jackie Chan, Bruce Willis, and Mel Gibson are shown gathered in front of the casket during an alleged memorial service for Norris.
Norris, who found stardom after starring in 1980s action movies like Missing in Action and the long-running CBS drama Walker, Texas Ranger, died last month at the age of 86.
“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives,” the Norris family said in a statement.
“While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him. The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends.”
They noted that though they “would like to keep the circumstances private” Norris “was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”
Survivors include his second wife, Gena, whom he married in 1998, and his children, Mike, Dina, Eric (a stunt coordinator who also directed Walker episodes), Danilee and Dakota.
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