Richard Norton, Famed Actor from ‘Mad Max’, Passes Away at the Age of 75

Richard Norton, a prolific actor and stunt coordinator who’s been working since the ’80s, died Sunday (March 30). He was 75.

Judy, Norton’s wife, shared the heartbreaking news via social media with a poignant message. She expressed her shock and devastation, stating that she was at a loss for words and feeling numb after losing her beloved partner. She acknowledged the outpouring of love and grief for the remarkable person they had lost, emphasizing that Norton was the love of her life and that she was trying to cope with the immense loss.

A cause of death has not yet been publicly shared.

Before pursuing a career in acting, Norton, an Australian actor, was a skilled martial artist who initially worked as a bodyguard for renowned musicians such as The Rolling Stones, ABBA, and David Bowie. His acting journey commenced in 1980 when he was cast by Chuck Norris in the action film The Octogon, marking the beginning of a successful career that included appearances in various martial arts and action films like American Ninja, Gymkata, China O’Brien, and Ironheart. Additionally, Norton took on multiple roles in the television series Walker, Texas Ranger from 1993 to 2001.

But his most memorable role was as The Prime Imperator in the 2015 Mad Max: Fury Road and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.

Furthermore, Norton made significant contributions to the entertainment industry as a prolific fight choreographer and stunt performer. His impressive resume included work on blockbuster films such as Mad Max, Suicide Squad, X-Men: Dark Phoenix, and The Amazing Spider-Man, showcasing his talent and expertise in creating thrilling action sequences.

Suicide Squad director James Gunn remembered the actor with a post on Instagram yesterday that showed him on set with John Cena and Joel Kinnaman.

“Richard Norton was a wonderfully talented stunt performer, stunt coordinator, and actor. He was also a friend. … He was a tough but sweet Australian dude with a hearty laugh and a million stories about his years making movies. I’d constantly grill him for tales about working on the 90’s Hong Kong movies we both loved so much, and he was always happy to oblige,” Gunn wrote, adding, “The film world will be a less vibrant place without him.”

In his own tribute, Norris said he was “absolutely heartbroken” over the loss.

“You inspired so many, and your legacy and impact will continue to live on for generations to come. You were truly one of the finest men I’ve ever known. I long for more time together, but I take comfort in the fact that we will meet again,” he wrote of Norton on social media.