Chuck Norris’ family is urging everyone not to believe everything they see online regarding his death.
In a statement shared on Norris’ official Instagram story, the family criticized the AI-generated posts that circulated about the actor after 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 death, there have been a number of AI-generated videos and posts circulating online that contain false and misleading information regarding the circumstances of his death, his health history, and who was present,” the family wrote.
The statement continued: “These allegations are completely untrue. This includes fabricated reports of past medical problems, in addition to false narratives surrounding family relationships.”
“We 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, after Norris’s death, AI photos taken during Norris’s funeral were circulated online. In the fake photos, 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 films such as… Missing in action and the long-running CBS drama Walker, Texas RangerHe 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 the lives of so many,” Norris’ family said in a statement.
“While our hearts are broken, we are so grateful for the life he lived and the unforgettable moments we had the pleasure of sharing with him. The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly grateful for that. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends.”
They noted that although they “would like to keep the circumstances private,” Norris “was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”
Survivors include his second wife, Gina, whom he married in 1998, and his children, Mike, Dina, and Eric (a stunt coordinator who also directed Walker Rings), Daniele and Dakota.
