American martial artist and actor Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86, his family confirmed.
Norris passed away on March 19, 2026, in Hawaii following a sudden medical emergency. According to a family statement, he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, though details of the cause of death were not disclosed.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in martial arts and action cinema, Norris first rose to prominence as a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion before transitioning into film and television.
He gained international fame through roles in action films such as The Delta Force and Missing in Action, and later became a household name for his portrayal of Cordell Walker in the long-running television series Walker, Texas Ranger.
Born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Oklahoma, he served in the United States Air Force, where he began training in martial arts during a deployment to South Korea. After his military service, he built a successful career as a martial arts instructor before entering Hollywood, with early encouragement from actor Steve McQueen.
Beyond his on-screen achievements, Norris founded his own martial arts system, Chun Kuk Do, and remained a prominent cultural figure well into the internet era, boosted by the viral “Chuck Norris facts” meme that cemented his reputation as a symbol of strength and invincibility.
He is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, and five children.
Tributes have since poured in from fans, fellow actors, and political figures, marking the end of an era for one of Hollywood’s most enduring action stars.
