Chuck Norris, Martial Arts Legend and Walker, Texas Ranger Star, Dies at 86

Chuck Norris, the iconic American martial artist and actor 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 passing on March 19, 2026, in Kauai, Hawaii.

A Life of Martial Arts and Action

Born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, Norris developed a passion for martial arts during his military service in South Korea with the United States Air Force. He earned black belts in multiple disciplines, including karate, taekwondo, Tang Soo Do, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and judo. He founded his own martial arts system, Chun Kuk Do.

From Bruce Lee to Hollywood Stardom

Norris’s early career included numerous martial arts championships. He transitioned to acting, initially working as a martial arts instructor for celebrities. His breakthrough role came in 1972 when he starred alongside Bruce Lee in The Way of the Dragon. This iconic duel launched his career in action cinema.

Norris continued to build his filmography with leading roles in action films such as Breaker! Breaker! (1977) and Great Guys Wear Black (1978). He became a prominent action star throughout the 1980s, appearing in films like The Delta Force and the Missing in Action series.

Walker, Texas Ranger and Lasting Legacy

Norris achieved widespread recognition for his role as Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger, which aired on CBS from 1993 to 2001. The show cemented his status as a television icon.

His family remembered him as “a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.” They also noted that he “lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved.”

Norris’s final film appearance was as himself in the Australian action comedy Zombie Plane.

“Chuck Norris Facts” and Cultural Impact

Beyond his on-screen work, Norris became a cultural phenomenon with the proliferation of “Chuck Norris facts” – a series of internet memes celebrating his supposed invincibility and machismo.

He is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, and five children, including Mike and Eric Norris.