Chuck Norris Dies at 86

Chuck Norris, the martial artist and actor known for his role in Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86, his family confirmed on Friday.

According to a family statement, Norris died on Thursday morning surrounded by his loved ones. They described his passing as sudden but said he was at peace in his final moments.

Norris first gained recognition as a competitive martial artist, winning several karate championships in the late 1960s. His success in the sport led to a friendship with Bruce Lee and a role alongside him in The Way of the Dragon (1972), which introduced Norris to an international audience and helped launch his acting career.

In the 1980s, he became a prominent figure in action films, starring in titles such as Missing in Action, Invasion U.S.A., and The Delta Force. His screen presence, defined by discipline and resilience, appealed to audiences and established him as a leading action star of the period. He later moved to television, where Walker, Texas Ranger became a long-running and widely recognised series in the 1990s.

Outside his work in entertainment, Norris was known for his political views and his support for conservative causes. His family’s statement focused on his personal life, describing him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. They also expressed appreciation for the support he received from fans, noting that he valued them deeply.