Carlos Ray “Chuck” Norris, the martial artist, actor and cultural icon best known for his roles in action films and the long-running CBS series Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86.
He passed away on Thursday morning (19 March) in Hawaii, surrounded by his family.
“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris. He lived life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” the actor's family said in a statement via social media.
Born in Ryan, Oklahoma, in 1940, Norris served in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to 1962. He earned the nickname “Chuck” while stationed in South Korea.
After his discharge, he worked for Northrop and began teaching martial arts, eventually making the transition into Hollywood.
Norris rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s as both a martial arts champion and an action star.
He appeared opposite Bruce Lee in the 1972 film The Way of the Dragon, before going on to headline a string of box-office successes, including Good Guys Wear Black (1978), The Octagon (1980) and Lone Wolf McQuade (1983).
Norris held black belts in multiple disciplines, including Tang Soo Do, Taekwondo, Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo.
An accomplished entrepreneur, Norris also founded a chain of karate schools, counting celebrity students such as Steve McQueen and Priscilla Presley among its students.
Over time, he became a symbol of all-American toughness, inspiring generations of fans both on screen and through countless internet memes celebrating his exaggerated feats of strength and endurance. Even in later years, he remained active on social media, promoting fitness, faith and patriotic causes.
He is survived by his two sons, Eric and Mike; three daughters, Dakota, Danilee, and Dina; and several grandchildren.
Chuck Norris leaves behind a legacy as a martial arts pioneer, action star and cultural icon whose influence spanned film, television and popular culture worldwide.
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