Fellow action stars are paying their respects to genre legend Chuck Norris, after the “Way of the Dragon” star passed away at the age of 86, with Sylvester Stallone and Dolph Lundgren among the many doing so. The latest to have his say is Jean-Claude Van Damme.
Van Damme, 65, has followed in his friend Norris’ kick-ass footsteps, starring in memorable movies like 1988’s “Bloodsport,” 1989’s “Cyborg” and “Kickboxer,” 1990’s “Lionheart,” 1991’s “Double Impact,” 1992’s “Universal Soldier,” and 1994’s “Street Fighter” (per IMDb).
Notably, he also appeared in two films Norris starred in — 1984’s “Missing in Action” and 2012’s “The Expendables 2” — although they never shared any scenes together.
Van Damme took to his Instagram account to share his thoughts on Norris’ tragic passing.
Jean-Claude Van Damme Sends ‘Deepest Condolences’ to Chuck Norris’ Loved Ones
In a heartfelt post to his 8.9 million followers, Jean-Claude Van Damme shared three pictures of himself with Chuck Norris. In the first two, it’s just the two of them. In the third, the equally iconic John Travolta is standing between them.
Van Damme’s caption on his post read, “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.”
It concluded, “My heart and prayers are with his family. He will never be forgotten. 🥋🙏🏼💔”
The “early days” Van Damme referred to may have been a reference to the aforementioned “Missing in Action.” Although his minor character didn’t interact with Norris’ Colonel James Braddock in the movie, Van Damme is also credited with working on stunts for the production. He may, therefore, have worked alongside Norris in that capacity.
Van Damme’s Followers Shared His Sentiments
GettyJean-Claude Van Damme’s followers echoed his sentiments about Chuck Norris’ passing. They rushed to the comments section of his post to have their say on the matter.
One follower wrote, “My condolences to Chuck Norris’ family, it’s sad what happened😢😢😢.”
Another said, “Such horrible news; seeing our idols go is so painful. But Chuck left behind an immense legacy, and he will live forever.”
Someone else commented, “I already had such a horrible night today and then ending it with this is crazy. Sorry you’ve lost your friend, JC.”
Meanwhile, one Instagram user referenced the famous Chuck Norris jokes that have been so popular on the internet since its inception, writing, “Chuck Norris can’t die. He can only switch planes of existence.🙌”
Finally, someone simply said, “Rest in Peace Legendary Chuck Norris 🥋 😔 🕊️🙏.”
We’d like to send our own heartfelt condolences to all of Chuck Norris’ family and friends — including Jean-Claude Van Damme — in the wake of his passing. We hope all the kind comments flooding in provide some comfort to them at this sad time.
May the legendary Chuck Norris rest in eternal peace.
