Chuck Norris, the iconic martial artist and actor best known for his role in the television series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” died on Thursday morning, March 20, 2026, in Hawaii. He was 86 years old. The news was announced by his family on his verified Facebook page.

Norris, whose real name was Carlos Ray Norris, leaves behind a legacy as a martial arts champion, a popular action film star, and a cultural icon. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Family Announces Norris’s Passing on Facebook

In a statement posted on Chuck Norris’s verified Facebook page, his family expressed their grief: “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.”

The statement also highlighted Norris’s multifaceted life. “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 statement continued.

The family emphasized Norris’s commitment to his faith, his purpose, and the people he loved. They added, “Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”

The family concluded their statement by expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support. “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.”

From Air Force to Martial Arts Champion

Born on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, Carlos Ray Norris’s path to stardom began with his service in the U.S. Air Force. He served from 1958 to 1962, and it was during his time stationed at Osan Air Base in South Korea that he began his martial arts training.

Norris excelled in martial arts, ultimately compiling a professional karate fight record of 65 wins and 5 losses. He earned black belts in multiple disciplines, solidifying his reputation as a formidable fighter.

Collaboration and Competition with Bruce Lee

In the mid-1960s, Norris trained with Bruce Lee, a fellow martial arts legend. Their collaboration culminated in a memorable on-screen confrontation in the 1972 film “The Way of the Dragon.”

The fight scene between Norris and Lee is considered a classic in martial arts cinema and helped launch Norris’s acting career.

Action Film Stardom and ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’

Following his appearance in “The Way of the Dragon,” Norris transitioned into action films. He starred in hits such as “Missing in Action” (1984) and “The Delta Force” (1986), further cementing his image as a tough and capable action hero.

However, Norris achieved his greatest mainstream success with the CBS television series “Walker, Texas Ranger.” The show, which ran from 1993 to 2001, made him a household name and solidified his status as a cultural icon.

Recognition and Honorary Title

Norris received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989, recognizing his contributions to the entertainment industry. In 2010, he was made an honorary Texas Ranger, a testament to his association with the iconic law enforcement agency through his television role.

Conservative Political Views and Internet Memes

Beyond his martial arts and acting career, Norris was also known for his conservative political views. He endorsed several Republican presidential candidates, actively participating in the political sphere.

In later years, Norris became the subject of the viral “Chuck Norris facts” internet meme phenomenon. These humorous exaggerations of his toughness and abilities further cemented his place in popular culture.

Survived by Five Children, First Wife Passed in 2025

Chuck Norris is survived by five children, including actor Mike Norris and NASCAR driver Eric Norris. His first wife, Dianne Holechek, passed away in December 2025.

Celebrating His 86th Birthday with Martial Arts

Just ten days before his death, on March 10, 2026, Chuck Norris celebrated his 86th birthday. He marked the occasion by posting a social media video of himself sparring in Hawaii, accompanied by the caption: “I do not age, I level up.”

Hollywood Pays Tribute to a Legend

Following the announcement of his death, Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, and numerous other Hollywood figures have paid tribute to Chuck Norris, acknowledging his impact on the entertainment industry and his contributions to martial arts.

The news of Chuck Norris’s death is likely to resonate with Filipinos, as martial arts films and action stars enjoy considerable popularity in the Philippines. While Norris did not have specific ties to Negros Oriental, the news will likely be carried by national news outlets and shared through social media, reaching audiences in the province.

Photo credit: Chuck Norris/Facebook