Chuck Norris, the martial arts champion who became an iconic action star and a symbol of strength through roles in film and television, died Thursday morning at age 86 following a medical emergency in Hawaii, his family announced Friday.
Norris was hospitalized on the island of Kauai, where he purchased a home in 2015, according to reports. His family released a statement confirming his death, stating, “Although we would like to maintain 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,” the statement continued. “He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved.”
Born Carlos Ray Norris in Oklahoma, he began studying martial arts during a tour in Korea. He rose to prominence as a martial arts competitor, winning the World Professional Middleweight Karate crown seven consecutive years. In 1996, Norris was awarded an eighth-degree Black Belt Grand Master in Taekwondo, a first for someone in the Western Hemisphere.
Norris transitioned to acting in 1968 with a role in “The Wrecking Crew.” He gained further recognition for his work alongside Bruce Lee in 1972’s “Return of the Dragon” and in 1984’s “Missing in Action.” However, he became a household name through his starring role as Texas Ranger Sgt. Cordell Walker in the television series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” which ran for nine seasons.
Just nine days before his death, on March 10, Norris celebrated his 86th birthday with an Instagram video showcasing his continued martial arts training. In the video, he stated, “I don’t age, I level up.”
Norris is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, whom he married in 1998, and five children: sons Mike and Eric from his first marriage to Diane Holachek, twins Dakota and Danilee with O’Kelley, and Dina from a previous relationship.
His daughter, Danilee, expressed her grief on social media, writing, “I don’t think grief is a good enough word to describe the emotions my family and I are going through right now.. Losing a parent is something that you are never prepared for.” Her twin brother, Dakota, shared photos with his father on Instagram, stating, “I’m so proud to be your son. The memories we made, the lessons you taught me, and the constant laughs we shared will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
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