Danica McKellar had a lot to say about the late Chuck Norris, who passed away on Thursday, March 19, at the age of 86.
The Great American Family star and former Hallmark actress shared a video on Instagram from a scene of their time together on “Walker, Texas Ranger.” McKellar explained in a voiceover for the clip that she was 19 years old during the 1994 episode, noting that it was two years after she appeared in “Sidekicks” alongside Norris.
McKellar was also a fierce competitor on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in the past.
Danica McKellar Thankful for Chuck Norris’ Generosity
McKellar elaborated on how Norris encouraged the “Walker, Texas Ranger” producers to allow her to do her own stunts instead of act as a “damsel in distress.” She said she was very “grateful” for Norris creating that opportunity for her to challenge herself in the beginning of her acting career.
In the caption of the video, McKellar wrote heartfelt words to describe how she’ll miss the late martial artist and his kind charm.
“RIP to the one and only Chuck Norris.🕊. I’m so grateful I got to work with this legend, twice. 🙏. First in the movie Sidekicks in 1992, and then in 1994 in an episode of his long-running series Walker, Texas Ranger, and he was so generous to me,” she said. “I was 19, and in the story I was a teenage mother whose baby was stolen. In the final fight sequence, I was supposed to just be a damsel in distress that Chuck saves from the bad guy. But on set, Chuck suggested that my character get in on the action, which was SO much fun.”
Danica McKellar says Chuck Norris Was ‘Bigger Than Life’
“I’ll never forget that little gift,” she continued. “And I bet I’m just one of countless others with a story like that. Sending prayers and comfort to those who loved him, including his wonderful brother, Aaron Norris, who I got to know as a director on both of those projects.”
The actress ended her tribute to Norris by emphasizing his unforgettable — and unmatched — charisma and strength.
“Some legends are so much bigger than life, it doesn’t seem like theirs should ever end,” she wrote. “Rest in peace, my friend. 🙏🙏🙏.”
Norris’ family announced his death on March 20, a day after he passed. The family of the legendary martial artist shared a statement on his Instagram, where they expressed how Norris will be remembered for his “discipline and kindness,” adding that their “hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him.”
