Chuck Norris, the martial arts champion who became one of the defining action stars of American film and television, has died at the age of 86. His family announced his death on Friday, saying he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, he rose from a modest background to become a global screen figure known for toughness, discipline and a quiet, commanding presence. His journey into martial arts began while serving in the United States Air Force in South Korea, an experience that shaped the course of his life.
Before entering Hollywood, Norris built a formidable reputation in combat sports. He became a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate Champion and later founded his own martial arts system, Chun Kuk Do. His success as an instructor opened doors in entertainment and helped launch his screen career.
Norris moved into film in the 1970s and became widely known after appearing opposite Bruce Lee in The Way of the Dragon. He went on to star in a string of action films including Missing in Action, The Delta Force and A Force of One, building a career around hard-edged roles that made him one of the most recognisable action actors of his era.
His biggest mainstream success came on television with Walker, Texas Ranger, which ran from 1993 to 2001. The series cemented his place in popular culture and introduced him to a broader audience beyond martial arts and action cinema.
Away from the screen, Norris remained active in youth development and martial arts education. He founded Kickstart Kids, a programme designed to help young people build discipline, confidence and self-respect. He also wrote books and maintained a visible presence in public life long after his years as a box office draw.
In later years, Norris became an unusual cultural figure. He was both a serious martial arts pioneer and an internet-era legend, thanks to the viral Chuck Norris Facts jokes that gave his public image a second life with a younger generation. That crossover helped keep his legacy alive far beyond the peak of his acting career.
Tributes have continued to pour in, with public figures and fellow entertainers describing him as a legend of action cinema and a lasting symbol of strength and grit. He is survived by his wife and children.
