Chuck Norris, 'Walker, Texas Ranger' star, dies at 86

Legendary action star Chuck Norris, best known for Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86, his family confirmed in a statement.

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris,” the statement read, noting that he died surrounded by loved ones.

The family described Norris not only as a global icon but as a devoted family man. “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 continued.

They added that he “lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” highlighting the impact he had on millions of fans around the world.

Born Carlos Ray Norris in 1940, he rose to fame through martial arts before becoming a Hollywood action star in films like The Way of the Dragon, where he starred opposite Bruce Lee. He later became a household name with the hit TV series Walker, Texas Ranger, which aired from 1993 to 2001.

Beyond his acting career, Norris was a martial arts champion and cultural icon, later gaining a new generation of fans through the viral “Chuck Norris facts” internet memes.

Norris is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren. His death marks the end of a decades-long career that left a lasting impact on action cinema and popular culture.