Film star Chuck Norris has died
The actor was 86 years old
He became famous worldwide as a martial arts star and action hero: Now Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86, according to various media reports. The actor's family has spoken out on Instagram. A post with a black and white photo of the actor reads:
"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. 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."
Decades-long career in Hollywood
The actor was born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940 in Ryan, Oklahoma. Before coming to Hollywood, he served in the United States Air Force and won numerous martial arts competitions. He held a black belt in various martial arts such as karate and taekwondo. He later taught martial arts to other celebrities in Hollywood and became an acting star himself. In 1972, Norris played one of the villains in the movie "The Way of the Dragon". He had the lead actor Bruce Lee to thank for his involvement: the martial arts legend was friends with Norris and offered him a role in the film.
Over the course of his decades-long film career, Norris has appeared in numerous other action films, for example alongside other genre greats such as Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham and Jet Li in the 2012 ensemble film "The Expendables 2". Norris was last seen in the action film "Agent Recon". He is likely to be remembered by a wider audience for his role as "Walker, Texas Ranger" in the TV series of the same name. As crime fighter Cordell Walker, Norris ensured law and order in Dallas for nine seasons from 1993 to 2001 - naturally also using martial arts, as Norris was accustomed to doing.
Chuck Norris is survived by five children and his wife Gena O'Kelley.
