Chuck Norris — Wikipedia/Yoni S.Hamenahem
Legendary actor and martial artist Chuck Norris has died.
Norris’ death at age 86 was announced Friday morning, March 20 in a statement by his family on social media.
Norris died at his home in Hawaii.
“While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace,” the statement said. “To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.”
Known for his starring roles in action films such as “Missing in Action” and the long-running series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” Norris became a global icon of martial arts, fitness, and faith. Throughout his decades-long career, he was celebrated as a symbol of strength and resilience.
Born Carlos Ray Norris in Oklahoma, Norris rose to fame as a martial arts champion before transitioning to Hollywood, according to Wikipedia. He won numerous karate titles in the 1960s and 1970s, eventually earning black belts in multiple martial arts, including Tang Soo Do, Taekwondo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Norris’s Hollywood breakthrough came with his role opposite Bruce Lee in the film “Way of the Dragon” (1972), where the two staged an iconic fight scene in the Roman Colosseum. He went on to star in a string of action films, including “The Octagon,” “Code of Silence,” and the “Missing in Action” series, which cemented his status as an action hero.
From 1993 to 2001, Norris starred in “Walker, Texas Ranger,” a crime drama that became a cultural phenomenon and ran for eight seasons. The show showcased his martial arts skills and brought his disciplined, justice-driven persona to television audiences worldwide.
Beyond acting, Norris was a philanthropist and fitness icon. He founded the Kickstart Kids program in 1990 to teach character development through martial arts to children. He also became a prominent figure in faith-based and conservative circles, often speaking about his Christian beliefs.
Norris is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, whom he married in 1998, and their twins, Dakota and Danilee. He also leaves behind three children from previous relationships: Mike, Eric, and Dina.
“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” his family’s statement said. “Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.
“While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him. The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends.”
