North Texas Mourns Passing of Action Star Chuck Norris

The "Walker, Texas Ranger" actor had deep ties to the region where he lived, filmed, and built lasting relationships.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:58am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Legendary actor and martial artist Chuck Norris, best known for his starring role in the TV series "Walker, Texas Ranger", has died at the age of 86. Norris had long-standing connections to North Texas, where he lived for years and used the region as the backdrop for much of his iconic show. Local residents and businesses are remembering Norris' impact and legacy in the area.

Why it matters

Chuck Norris was a cultural icon who left a lasting impression on North Texas through his acting career and community involvement. His passing marks the end of an era for the region, which served as the setting for his most famous role and where he maintained close personal and professional ties.

The details

Norris was a regular at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Dallas, where the senior pastor, Jack Graham, was a close friend of the actor. Norris also frequently visited the Vintage Stock store in Irving, where employees say he interacted warmly with fans. The Texas Archive of the Moving Image in Austin shared rare behind-the-scenes footage of Norris filming "Walker, Texas Ranger" in Irving in 1995, highlighting his connection to the state.

  • Chuck Norris died on Thursday, March 21, 2026 at the age of 86.
  • Norris was named an Honorary Texas Ranger by then-Governor Rick Perry in 2010.
  • The Texas Senate later awarded Norris the title of honorary Texan.

The players

Chuck Norris

An actor and martial artist best known for his starring role in the TV series "Walker, Texas Ranger". Norris had deep ties to North Texas, where he lived for years and used the region as the backdrop for much of his iconic show.

Jack Graham

The senior pastor at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Dallas, who was a close friend of Chuck Norris and served as his pastor during the actor's time in the area.

Gabriel Ortega

The store manager at Vintage Stock in Irving, Texas, where Norris was a frequent visitor and the store has a display featuring his most recognizable films and shows.

Stephanie Martinez

An employee at Vintage Stock in Irving, Texas, who was shocked to hear the news of Norris' passing as she had seen him interact with fans at conventions.

Elizabeth Hansen

The managing director at the Texas Archive of the Moving Image in Austin, which shared rare behind-the-scenes footage of Norris filming "Walker, Texas Ranger" in Irving in 1995.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Chuck Norris was a great friend and brother in Christ. It was a privilege to be his pastor during his days in Dallas while filming Walker, Texas Ranger. Chuck was obviously a man's man, but he was also God's man. I also appreciate the fact that he loved his country and was an American patriot, and served our country well. He was truly an icon in so many areas, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy as a faithful believer and an indelible mark as a cultural legend.”

— Jack Graham, Senior Pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church

“Just because I always do see him at conventions, he comes here a lot to Dallas, so it's really surprising, cause I've seen him, I see how he interacts with fans, so it's pretty sad.”

— Stephanie Martinez, Employee, Vintage Stock

What’s next

The Texas Senate is expected to formally recognize Norris as an honorary Texan in a special ceremony later this year.

The takeaway

Chuck Norris' passing marks the end of an era for North Texas, where the beloved actor and martial artist maintained deep personal and professional ties. His impact on the region, both through his iconic television series and his community involvement, will continue to be felt for years to come.