The world of martial arts and Hollywood has lost a true legend with the sudden passing of Richard Norton, who died at the age of 75 on Friday night.
Known for his work as a martial arts trainer, fight coordinator, and personal bodyguard to A-list celebrities, Norton’s unexpected death at his home in South Melbourne has left the community in shock.
Tributes Pour In for the Martial Arts Icon
Norton’s wife, Judy Green, shared the heartbreaking news with fans and friends through an emotional Instagram post.
“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.”
Her post continued with a personal message: “The love of my life.
I’m using this time to come to terms with my great loss. Judy.”
The martial arts community and Hollywood stars have also expressed their sorrow.
Actor Robert Patrick, who worked with Norton on Equalizer 2000, paid tribute to his dear friend on social media.
“He was an extraordinary individual, a towering figure in the martial arts community, and a contemporary of Chuck Norris,” Patrick said.
“More than that, he was a wonderful human being.”
Richard Norton’s Martial Arts Journey
Born in Sydney, Richard Norton’s martial arts journey began at just 11 years old when he started studying judo.
By the time he was 17, he had earned his black belt in karate.
His dedication and skill in martial arts quickly elevated him to prominence, and by 1970, he became the chief instructor at Bob Jones’ Martial Arts studio in Melbourne.
Throughout his career, Norton was not only a respected martial arts instructor but also a highly sought-after personal security guard for rock stars.
His martial arts expertise took him to Hollywood, where he worked as a fight coordinator on major films, bringing his skills to life on the big screen.
Norton’s career spanned across various fields, including bodyguard roles, acting, and stunt coordination.
A Storied Hollywood Career
In addition to his martial arts prowess, Norton became known for his appearances in Hong Kong action films such as The Magic Crystal, Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars, and City Hunter.
His talents were not confined to the martial arts world alone; he also became a familiar face in Hollywood, working as a fight coordinator on high-profile films such as Mad Max: Fury Road, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, Suicide Squad, and X-Men: Dark Phoenix.
His work with top actors was highly regarded. Norton trained Liam Neeson for the movie Backlight and also coached Charlie Hunnam and Ben Affleck during the making of Triple Frontier in Hawaii.
These collaborations added to his impressive reputation in both the martial arts and film industries.
A Personal and Professional Legacy
Beyond his professional achievements, Norton is remembered by those who knew him as a humble, generous, and deeply respected figure.
His legacy continues through his contributions to the martial arts community and the impact he had on his students, colleagues, and friends.
Norton’s wife, Judy, along with countless fans and colleagues, now mourns the loss of the man who touched so many lives.
As the tributes continue to pour in, Richard Norton’s name will forever remain synonymous with excellence in martial arts and filmmaking.