Chuck Norris, the martial artist and actor known for playing the title role in “Walker, Texas Ranger,” has died at 86 years old. He is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, his five children, and his 13 grandchildren.
Shortly before his death, Norris was taken to a hospital in Hawaii after a sparring session with his trainer, during which he had reportedly been in a good mood, according to TMZ. His family posted on Instagram to announce the heartbreaking news.
FORT WORTH, TX – NOVEMBER 06: Actor Chuck Norris speaks with the media during a press conference prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series AAA Texas 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on November 6, 2016 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images)
“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” the post began. “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.”
NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA – JUNE 26: The Price is Right Game Show Host Bob Barker, who was one of the honoree’s at the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, poses with Actor Chuck Norris on June 26, 2004 in North Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
The Instagram caption continued, “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.”
FORT WORTH, TX – NOVEMBER 06: Actors Dennis Quaid and Chuck Norris look on prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series AAA Texas 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on November 6, 2016 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
“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,” the post read. “We know many of you had heard about his recent hospitalization, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way. As we grieve this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family during this time. Thank you for loving him with us.”
Norris held a black belt in several martial arts, including karate, taekwondo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Tang Soo Do, a sport he first explored while stationed in South Korea as a member of the United States Air Force. While he had largely retired from acting, he had recently lent his talents to the screen once again for two films, a science-fiction action movie called “Agent Recon” that came out in 2024, and an upcoming Australian film called “Zombie Plane,” where he was playing himself alongside Vanilla Ice and Sophie Monk.
He will surely be missed.
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