KAUAI, HI—On March 19, martial arts actor, Carlos Ray “Chuck” Norris passed away at the age of 86. His family confirmed Norris was rushed to the hospital due to a medical emergency that led to his death.
“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning. 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,” the family said in a statement.
Norris was born in Oklahoma and married twice during his lifetime. First to Dianne Holechek (1958-1989) and later to Gena O’Kelley (1998-2026). He had five children, Dina, Mike, Eric, Dakota, and Danilee.
Norris began studying martial arts when he was stationed in Korea as a serviceman for the U.S. Air Force. Upon his return in 1962, he opened his first karate studio.
It was 1972, Norris co-starred with Bruce Lee in “The Way of the Dragon.” He starred in the series, “Walker, Texas Ranger” as Sergeant Cordell Walker, a series that aired from 1993 until it ended in 2001.
It is rumored that people in Alpine in Brewster County, Texas (Big Bend region) allege these stories were based on the life of Texas Ranger, Joaquin Jackson, originally portrayed in 1987 by Nick Nolte.
In 1977, Norris starred in “Breaker, Breaker!” Followed by “Good Guys Wear Black,” “Forced Vengeance” and “Missing in Action” (1984). He also starred in “Code of Silence” (1985), and “Delta Force” (1986).
Norris was charitable and contributed to multiple charities including Make-A-Wish Foundation. He founded his own charity, Kickstart,” with the help of former President H.W. Bush.
Kickstart provided martial arts training to middle-school students to teach respect, discipline, and to improve self-esteem.
“Kids need heroes. Call it square if you want, but I’m a flag waver, so I push a lot of Americanism in my movies,” said Norris. He also championed various causes including the right to bear arms.
