Veteran Hollywood actor and martial arts icon, Chuck Norris, has died at the age of 86, his family has confirmed.
The family announced his passing in a statement shared on Instagram, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” the statement read.
Describing his impact both at home and globally, the family said Norris inspired millions through his discipline, work, and kindness.
“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,” the statement added.
Born Carlos Ray Norris in 1940 in Oklahoma, Norris joined the United States Air Force as a teenager.
While stationed in South Korea, he began training in martial arts, eventually earning a black belt and winning multiple karate championships in the 1960s.
Norris rose to international prominence after starring alongside Bruce Lee in the 1972 film The Way of the Dragon.
Their iconic fight scene remains one of the most memorable moments in martial arts cinema.
He went on to feature in several hit action films, including Missing in Action, Delta Force, and Code of Silence.
Norris later became a household name for his role as Cordell Walker in the hit TV series Walker, Texas Ranger, which aired from 1993 to 2001.
His final major film appearance came in The Expendables 2.
Outside acting, Norris was a strong advocate for fitness and founded martial arts schools.
In later years, he also became a pop culture phenomenon through viral “Chuck Norris facts” – humorous internet memes exaggerating his strength and toughness.
From martial arts champion to global film star, Norris built a legacy defined by discipline, resilience, and influence across generations.
His death marks the end of an era in action cinema, leaving behind a lasting impact on fans worldwide.
