Chuck Norris, Action Icon and ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ Star, Dies at 86

Chuck Norris, the martial artist and action movie star best known for his role as Cordell Walker in the television series Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86. His family confirmed his death on Friday, March 20, 2026, stating he passed away the previous morning.

A Legacy of Strength and Justice

Norris’s family shared the news via Instagram, noting that while they wished to keep the circumstances private, he was surrounded by loved ones and “was at peace.” They described him as “a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.”

He rose to prominence playing Sgt. Cordell Walker, a former Marine who delivered justice with his signature roundhouse kick and a strong moral code. The series, Walker, Texas Ranger, remains popular in syndication.

From Martial Arts to Hollywood

Before his acting career, Norris was a martial arts champion and trainer. He appeared in films alongside Bruce Lee in 1972’s The Way of the Dragon and starred in 1980s action thrillers such as Lone Wolf McQuade, Missing in Action, Code of Silence, and The Delta Force. He similarly appeared in The Expendables 2 and Zombie Plane.

Norris founded his own Korean-based American hard style of karate, known as Chun Kuk Do, and the United Fighting Arts Federation.

A Cultural Icon

Beyond his film and television work, Norris became a popular internet meme, with exaggerated jokes about his strength and martial arts prowess.

He was also known as a vocal advocate for conservative political causes and his Christian beliefs.

Family and Personal Life

Norris was born Carlos Ray Norris in Oklahoma on March 10, 1940. He served in the United States Air Force before pursuing his martial arts and acting careers. He is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, and his children, including Mike and Eric Norris. His first wife, Dianne Holecheck, passed away in December.