Chuck Norris, Action Movie Legend and ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ Star, Dies at 86
Chuck Norris, the iconic martial arts champion and actor known for his roles in action films like Missing in Action and the television series Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86. His family announced his sudden passing on Thursday in Hawaii, following a hospitalization.
A Life of Faith, Purpose, and Impact
“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” his family shared in a statement. “Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.” The family expressed gratitude for the love and support Norris received from fans, adding that he considered them friends.
The family requested privacy regarding the circumstances of his death, noting that he was surrounded by loved ones and “at peace.”
From Martial Arts to Hollywood Stardom
Norris was a highly accomplished martial artist, holding black belts in karate, Tang Soo Do, and taekwondo. He trained with Bruce Lee and even appeared alongside him in the 1972 film The Way of the Dragon [Hollywood Reporter]. Prior to this, he had a small role in Lee’s The Wrecking Crew in 1968 [Slashfilm].
He launched his film career after a karate tournament where he asked his opponent, Skipper Mullins, to “beat on my body but try not to hit me in the face” as of his upcoming movie role [Slashfilm]. Mullins ended up giving Norris a black eye, requiring two hours of makeup to cover for the film set.
A Career Spanning Decades
Norris rose to prominence in the 1980s with action films like Missing in Action and gained further recognition for his starring role as Cordell Walker in the long-running CBS drama Walker, Texas Ranger [WION]. He became a pop culture icon, celebrated for his on-screen persona and martial arts skills [MSN].
Tributes from Around the World
News of Norris’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow actors. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, was among those who remembered the acting legend [WION].