The martial arts world is mourning the loss of one of its greatest figures, as Australian legend Richard Norton has passed away at the age of 75.
Known for his incredible skill, larger-than-life presence, and deep influence in Hollywood, Norton left an indelible mark on martial arts and action cinema.
A Sudden and Heartbreaking Loss
Norton passed away suddenly at his home in South Melbourne on Friday night.
His wife, Judy Green, shared the devastating news on Instagram, expressing the profound grief she is experiencing.
“I am numb and devastated, I have no words, I have lost my everything,” she wrote.
“I know there is, and will be, lots of love and shock that we have lost this incredible human being.
The love of my life. I’m using this time to come to terms with my great loss.”
The announcement was met with an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues, and Hollywood stars who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
Hollywood and Martial Arts Communities Pay Tribute
Among those who paid their respects was Robert Patrick, known for his role in Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
He took to Instagram to honor Norton, remembering him not only as a martial arts master but as a kind and generous soul.
“He was an extraordinary individual, a towering figure in the martial arts community, and a contemporary of Chuck Norris,” Patrick wrote.
“In addition to his impressive career as a highly sought-after bodyguard for rock stars, he made his mark as an accomplished fight coordinator on major films.
More than that, he was a wonderful human being, and I feel fortunate to have shared the screen with him in Equalizer 2000.”
From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood Fame
Born and raised in Sydney, Norton developed a passion for martial arts early in life.
By the age of 11, he had already started studying judo, and by 17, he had earned a black belt in karate.
His dedication led him to a prestigious role in 1970 as the chief instructor at Bob Jones’ Martial Arts studio in Melbourne, where he trained countless students and honed his own craft.
His expertise eventually brought him to the world of personal security, where he worked as a bodyguard for high-profile celebrities before transitioning into the film industry.
A Legendary Career in Action Films
Norton’s talents extended far beyond martial arts—he became a respected name in action cinema, both in Hollywood and Hong Kong.
He starred in classic action films such as The Magic Crystal, Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars, and City Hunter, making a lasting impact on the genre.
He also had a connection to the music world, appearing as a bodyguard in ABBA’s iconic 1977 film ABBA: The Movie, which was filmed in Australia.
Training Hollywood’s Biggest Stars
In addition to his acting career, Norton was one of the most sought-after fight coordinators and trainers in the film industry.
His expertise was instrumental in shaping action sequences in major blockbusters like Mad Max: Fury Road, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, Suicide Squad, and X-Men: Dark Phoenix.
He also personally trained some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Scarlett Johansson, Margot Robbie, Liam Neeson, Ben Affleck, and Charlie Hunnam, ensuring that their fight scenes looked as authentic as possible.
A Lasting Legacy
Richard Norton wasn’t just a martial arts legend—he was a mentor, a trainer, and an inspiration to countless individuals in and out of the industry.
His decades-long career, spanning from high-level combat training to shaping Hollywood action, will remain his enduring legacy.
His loss is deeply felt, but his contributions to martial arts and cinema will continue to inspire future generations.