Action star, martial artist Chuck Norris dies at 86

Chuck Norris, the martial arts champion who rose to global fame through 1980s action films and the television series ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’, has died at the age of 86, his family said on Friday in an Instagram post.

Norris was hospitalised in Hawaii on Thursday, and his family announced his death in a statement, saying he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. They did not disclose the cause of death.

“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” the family said, adding that he inspired millions through his work, discipline and kindness.

A highly skilled martial artist, Norris held black belts in multiple disciplines, including karate, Tang Soo Do and taekwondo. He also trained with Bruce Lee and famously appeared alongside him in the 1972 film ‘The Way of the Dragon’.

Encouraged by actor Steve McQueen, for whom he had provided karate training, Norris transitioned into acting and gained prominence with films such as ‘Lone Wolf McQuade’ and ‘Missing in Action’. The latter proved popular with audiences and led to multiple sequels. 

He went on to star in a string of successful action films, including ‘Code of Silence’, ‘Invasion U.S.A.’, ‘Firewalker’ and ‘The Delta Force’.

Norris later achieved widespread recognition on television with the long-running CBS series ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’, which aired from 1993 for nine seasons. He played Cordell Walker, a Texas Ranger known for his calm demeanour and strong sense of justice.

Known for performing many of his own stunts and portraying principled, lone-hero characters, Norris built a lasting legacy in action cinema and television.