Chuck Norris Dies at Age 86

Chuck Norris, the iconic martial artist and actor best known for his roles in numerous action films and as Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at age 86. His family announced his passing on Friday via social media, stating that he was surrounded by loved ones when he passed away on Thursday morning after a sudden illness.

The family shared a heartfelt statement expressing their deep sorrow and requesting privacy regarding the circumstances of his death. They described Norris as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, incredible brother, and the heart of their family. The announcement came just days after Norris was hospitalized in Hawaii on Thursday.

Tributes have poured in from around the world, with notable figures expressing their condolences and sharing memories of Norris. Sylvester Stallone, who starred alongside Norris in The Expendables 2, shared a photo on Instagram, writing that he had 'a great time working with Chuck' and described him as 'All American in every way'. Jean-Claude Van Damme also took to social media to share his respects, stating that he always respected the man Norris was. President Donald Trump joined the tributes, telling reporters outside the White House that Norris was a 'great guy' and a 'tough cookie'.

Born Carlos Ray Norris in Oklahoma on March 10, 1940, Norris served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War before rising to fame as a martial artist. He became a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion and won a series of karate championships in the late 1960s. After his honorable discharge from the U.S. Air Force in 1962, he opened a martial arts studio that later expanded into a chain attended by celebrities like Steve McQueen, Priscilla Presley, and Bob Barker.

Norris went on to act in more than two dozen movies, such as Missing in Action, The Delta Force, and Sidekicks. In 1993, he took on his most famous role as a crime-fighting lawman in TV's Walker, Texas Ranger. The show ran for nine seasons, and in 2010, then-Gov. Rick Perry awarded him the title of honorary Texas Ranger. The Texas Senate later named him an honorary Texan.

Norris credited his mother for saving his 'soul' during his career, stating that her prayers helped guide him back to faith after he lost his way in Hollywood. He founded Kickstart Kids, a martial arts program promoting values like respect and discipline, which has reached over 120,000 students across Texas since its launch in 1992.

Norris's tough-guy image made him an internet meme in his later years, though he received pushback for his far-right political views and embrace of conspiracy theories. His family expressed gratitude to fans for their prayers during his hospitalization, stating that he lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved.