Action movie legend and martial arts grandmaster Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86, his family has confirmed.
In a statement released on Friday, the family said Norris “passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones,” though further details about the cause of death were not immediately disclosed.
Norris rose to global fame for his tough-guy roles in film and television, most notably as the lead in the long-running series Walker, Texas Ranger. His on-screen persona as an unstoppable lawman cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s most enduring action stars.
“Chuck was not only a devoted family man but also a man of unwavering faith and discipline,” the statement read. “His legacy will live on through his work, his teachings, and the millions of lives he inspired around the world.”
Beyond acting, Norris was a highly respected martial artist, holding black belts in multiple disciplines and founding his own fighting system, Chun Kuk Do. He also served in the United States Air Force before transitioning to a career in entertainment.
In later years, Norris became a cultural phenomenon online, inspiring countless “Chuck Norris facts” — humorous internet memes exaggerating his strength and invincibility.
Tributes have begun pouring in from fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry, many hailing him as a symbol of resilience, discipline, and classic action heroism.
He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.
