Chuck Norris, Martial Arts Legend and 'Walker, Texas Ranger' Star, Dies at 86
The iconic martial artist and actor Chuck Norris, best known for 'Walker, Texas Ranger,' has passed away at the age of 86. Norris was hospitalized in Kauai, Hawaii, earlier this week.
Chuck Norris, the martial arts master and star of the CBS prime-time series Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at 86. His family announced the news via an Instagram post on Friday, March 20, stating he passed away the previous morning surrounded by family.
Norris had reportedly been hospitalized in Kauai, Hawaii, earlier in the week for undisclosed reasons, with TMZ reporting a "medical emergency."
The family's post continued, honoring him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, highlighting his unwavering commitment to loved ones. They emphasized his inspiring impact on millions through his work, discipline, and kindness.
Born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, he began his martial arts journey in 1958 while stationed at Osan Air Base in South Korea. After his discharge from the Air Force in 1962, Norris opened his own martial arts studio in Torrance, California.
His dojo evolved into a chain of karate schools, where he trained while competing in and winning numerous karate competitions, securing championships and world belts. It was during this time that he met Bruce Lee, leading to a friendship and his role as Lee’s rival in 1972’s Return of the Dragon.
This role opened doors to films like 1974’s Slaughter in San Francisco. Norris starred in and choreographed fight scenes in a series of action movies throughout the 1970s and 80s, including 1978's Good Guys Wear Black, 1982’s Silent Rage and Forced Vengeance, Lone Wolf McQuade (1983), the Mission In Action series, and two Delta Force films.
Known for his tough-guy persona, Norris later embraced comedic roles in films like Sidekicks (1992) and Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004).
Norris is most famous for Walker, Texas Ranger, a CBS crime procedural inspired by his Lone Wolf McQuade character. He starred in the series for eight seasons and performed its theme song, “Eyes of the Ranger.”
Outside of acting, Norris created his own martial arts discipline, Chun Kuk Do, penned the New York Times best-selling memoir The Secret of My Inner Strength: My Story (1987), and appeared in Total Gym commercials with Christie Brinkley. His autobiography, Against All Odds: My Story, was published in 2004, and he launched the World Combat League martial arts competition the following year.
Younger audiences know Norris through the Chuck Norris Facts internet meme.
The family concluded their tribute with gratitude for his life and the unforgettable moments shared, acknowledging the love and support from fans worldwide.
See the tribute below:
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