Walker, Texas Ranger actor Chuck Norris dies at 86 after being hospitalized

Legendary martial artist and action star Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86. The actor died on March 19, 2026, in Kauai, Hawaii, after being hospitalized following a sudden medical emergency.

Norris became one of Hollywood’s most popular action heroes during the 1980s and 1990s. He is best known for playing Cordell Walker in the long-running television series Walker, Texas Ranger, which aired from 1993 to 2001 and made him a household name around the world. His family issued the following statement after his death on Thursday:

“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 the lives of so many.”

The life of Hollywood action legend Chuck Norris

Chuck Norris was born on March 10, 1940 in Ryan, Oklahoma, in the United States. As a young man, Norris joined the United States Air Force in 1958. While serving in South Korea, he discovered martial arts and began training in Tang Soo Do. This is what prompted him to begin his long journey in martial arts.

After returning to the United States, Norris continued training and soon became one of the best karate fighters in the world. He won several tournaments, and in 1968, he became the middleweight karate champion, a title he held for six consecutive years.

His success in competitions has helped him build a reputation in the martial arts community. He also created a special martial arts system called Chun Kuk Do and opened several karate schools.

Chuck Norris later moved into the film industry. His friendship with legendary actor and martial artist Bruce Lee helped launch his acting career. Lee invited him to appear in the 1972 martial arts film Dragon Road. In the film, Norris played Lee’s final opponent in a famous fight scene set in the Roman Colosseum. The fight became one of the most memorable martial arts scenes of all time.

During the 1980s and early 1990s, Chuck Norris reached the peak of his career. He starred in many successful films such as The Octagon, Missing in Action, Code of Silence, Invasion of the USA, and Delta power.

Norris reached greater fame when he began starring in television series Walker, Texas Ranger. The show ran from 1993 to 2001 and featured Norris as Cordell Walker, a tough, honorable Texas Ranger who used martial arts and traditional law enforcement skills to fight crime. This role made Norris a household name around the world.

Throughout his career, Norris has received numerous honors and awards. He has received numerous martial arts titles, including “Fighter of the Year” for karate in 1969. In 1989, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

He also received awards such as the Gold Lifetime Achievement Award from the World Karate Federation Hall of Fame and the ActionFest Lifetime Achievement Award. Additionally, the United States Marine Corps awarded him the title of Honorary Marine in 2007.

Along with acting and martial arts, Norris has written books, supported charities, and created programs for youth that teach discipline and character through martial arts. He wrote several books that focused on Christian beliefs and national values.

Chuck Norris has been married twice. His first marriage was to Diane Holczyk in 1958, and the couple remained together until their divorce in 1988. He later married Gina O’Kelly in 1998. Norris is survived by his wife, sons Eric, Mike and Dakota, daughters Danielle and Dina, and numerous grandchildren.