Chuck Norris, 'Walker, Texas Ranger' Star, Dies at 86

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Chuck Norris, the legendary martial artist and actor best known for his role as Sergeant Cordell Walker on the hit TV series "Walker, Texas Ranger," has died at the age of 86. Norris's family announced his passing on Friday, following reports earlier this week of a medical emergency in Hawaii. While the details surrounding his death have not been disclosed, Norris's legacy as a cultural icon and philanthropist extends far beyond his on-screen persona.

Why it matters

Norris's passing marks the end of an era for action stars and martial arts legends. As both an accomplished martial artist and a beloved television and film actor, he left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring countless memes and becoming a symbol of strength and toughness. His philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Kickstart Kids program, also demonstrated his commitment to positively impacting the lives of young people.

The details

Born Carlos Ray Norris in 1940 in Ryan, Oklahoma, Norris faced a difficult childhood marked by hardship and racial prejudice. He found solace and discipline in martial arts while serving in the Air Force in South Korea, a path that would ultimately define his career. Norris became a world middleweight karate champion from 1968 to 1974 and opened a chain of karate schools in Southern California. His big break came in 1973 when he shared the screen with Bruce Lee in the film "Return of the Dragon," which launched him into the spotlight as an action star. Norris went on to star in numerous action films throughout the 1980s, including "Missing in Action" and "Code of Silence," before landing his most iconic role as Sergeant Cordell Walker in the long-running TV series "Walker, Texas Ranger."

• Norris was born in 1940 in Ryan, Oklahoma.
• He became a world middleweight karate champion from 1968 to 1974.
• Norris starred in the 1973 film "Return of the Dragon" with Bruce Lee.
• Norris starred in numerous action films in the 1980s.
• "Walker, Texas Ranger" aired on CBS for nine seasons from 1993 to 2001.