Embattled Australian radio personality Kyle Sandilands has encountered yet another personal and professional setback this week, following the death of his movie co-star, the iconic American actor Chuck Norris, at the age of 86 on Thursday morning. This news comes hot on the heels of Sandilands' recent termination from his lucrative $100 million contract with ARN last week, compounding a difficult period for the shock jock.
Final Film Role for a Hollywood Legend
The pair worked together on the action comedy film Zombie Plane, which was shot on the Gold Coast in 2023. In what has now been confirmed as his final acting role, Norris portrayed the head of a spy agency composed entirely of celebrities, a part that allowed him to humorously parody his own tough-guy on-screen persona. The movie also features appearances by other notable figures, including Sophie Monk and Vanilla Ice, adding to its star-studded cast.
Sandilands' Financial Sacrifice for the Role
Sandilands previously disclosed that he accepted a minimal payment for his cameo in the film, describing the amount as "pathetic" at roughly five thousand dollars. He explained that legal requirements forced the production to pay him, but he was more motivated by the opportunity to collaborate with legends like Norris and rapper Ice-T. "I know that I didn't want to get paid because it was a pathetic amount. And then they said, 'by law, we have to pay you'," Sandilands recounted last year.
Interestingly, Sandilands revealed that the role ended up costing him significantly more out-of-pocket, estimating expenses around fifteen thousand dollars due to his preference for private travel and accommodation. "I think it cost me about 15 grand because I travel my own way, stay in my own accommodation," he said. "And I had to get a separate boat to sit on. How much does that cost me? But I didn't care. I did it because I wanted to work opposite Ice-T."
Producer's Reflections and Film's Status
The film's producer, Shaked Berenson, confirmed on Friday that Zombie Plane is currently in the editing phase and is scheduled to premiere sometime next year. This will mark Norris's final appearance on the silver screen, a poignant milestone for fans and colleagues alike. Berenson expressed his grief over Norris's passing, praising the actor as a "pure joy to work with and a total pro."
Berenson also shared that Norris's family was present on set during filming at the actor's ranch, describing them as "lovely." He noted that the famous Chuck Norris memes, which gained cult status on social media, became a lighthearted topic of conversation, with Norris himself "getting a kick out of them." This ability to laugh at himself, Berenson added, was "perfect for the tone of the film" they were creating together.
Tributes and Legacy of Chuck Norris
Following his passing, Norris's family released a heartfelt statement paying tribute to him as a "devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family." They highlighted his life lived with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to loved ones, noting that through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions globally and left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Norris was best known for his action-packed roles in television and film, including the popular series Walker, Texas Ranger and movies like The Delta Force in the 1980s. Beyond acting, he was a renowned martial artist and fitness guru, whose legacy extended into internet culture through viral memes in his later years. His death marks the end of an era for action cinema and pop culture enthusiasts worldwide.
