Chuck Norris, the gruff martial artist and Hollywood action star, has died, his family announced on Friday.
“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” his family announced via Instagram, “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.
“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, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family. He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”
Norris was undoubtedly best known for his role as Texas Ranger Sergeant Cordell Walker, the leading man who delivered justice throughout the nine-season run of Walker, Texas Ranger. As you might already know from years of internet memes in the early 2000s, both Walker and Norris were also famous for their roundhouse kicks.
Born on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, Carlos Ray “Chuck” Norris first rose to fame as a martial arts champion and trainer. His career in Hollywood would kick off with The Wrecking Crew in 1968, before he appeared in prominent films like Bruce Lee’s The Way of the Dragon, Lone Wolf McQuade, Missing in Action, and more.
His family reflected on his impact, saying, “While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him. The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends.
