Judson Mills, co-star of Chuck Norris in “Walker, Texas Ranger,” has criticized the Emmys for omitting Norris from its In Memoriam tribute following the actor’s death in March. Mills described the omission as a “tragic” and “terrible mistake.”
Norris, who died at age 86, was known for his role as the star of the CBS procedural “Walker, Texas Ranger,” which ran for nine seasons and 203 episodes from 1993 to 2001. He also reprised the role in the 2005 television movie “Walker, Texas Ranger: Trial by Fire.”
In an interview with TMZ, Mills stated, “Tragic mistake. And I have to assume it was just a terrible mistake. But my first thought was Gena and the family and his fans.” He was referring to Norris’ widow, Gena O’Kelley. Mills, who played Francis Gage opposite Norris in the final two seasons of the series and the subsequent movie, added, “I’m confident Chuck would encourage forgiveness. He was an ‘it’s not all about me’ kind of guy.”
Mills expressed disappointment that an “icon of his stature” did not receive recognition, stating, “He was a legend for God’s sake.” He admitted, “It hurt my feelings for sure.”
Norris was not the only notable figure left out of the Emmys In Memoriam segment. The tribute also failed to include “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” star Nicholas Brendon, despite a “Buffy” reunion occurring earlier in the ceremony. Patrick Muldoon (“Days of Our Lives,” “Starship Troopers”), Jaye P. Morgan (“The Gong Show”), Daveigh Chase (“The Ring”), and Grizz Chapman (“30 Rock”) were also omitted.
Norris’ family announced his death on March 20, stating that to them, he was “a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.” They added that he “lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved” and “left a lasting impact on so many lives.”
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