Martial Arts Legend Chuck Norris Celebrates 86th Birthday

The Walker, Texas Ranger star remains active and focused on his non-profit organization.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Iconic action star Chuck Norris celebrated his 86th birthday on March 10th, 2026. The former Walker, Texas Ranger actor shared a video of himself practicing martial arts moves, saying "I don't age. I level up." Norris has largely retired from acting since 2005 but remains active with his non-profit Kickstart Kids, which teaches karate to middle and high school students in Texas. He lives on a ranch in Navasota, Texas with his wife Gena O'Kelley, whom he married in 1998. Norris has been married twice before and has five children from his previous relationships.

Why it matters

Chuck Norris is a beloved figure who has entertained audiences for decades with his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona. At 86 years old, he continues to stay active and focused on his charitable work, inspiring his fans and showing that age is just a number when it comes to staying physically and mentally sharp.

The details

Norris, whose real name is Carlos Ray Norris, got his start in acting in 1968 and is best known for his starring role in the 1990s TV series Walker, Texas Ranger. Though he largely retired from acting in 2005, he has made a few film appearances in the years since, with his last credit being 2024's Agent Recon. In addition to his acting career, Norris founded the non-profit Kickstart Kids in 1990, which teaches karate to middle and high school students in Texas. He currently lives on a ranch in Navasota, Texas with his wife Gena O'Kelley, whom he married in 1998. Prior to his current marriage, Norris was married to Dianne Kay Holechek for 30 years and has five children from his previous relationships.

  • Chuck Norris celebrated his 86th birthday on March 10, 2026.
  • Norris founded his non-profit Kickstart Kids in 1990.
  • Norris married his current wife Gena O'Kelley in 1998.
  • Norris' last acting credit was the 2024 film Agent Recon.
  • Norris largely retired from acting in 2005.

The players

Chuck Norris

A legendary martial artist and actor, best known for his starring role in the 1990s TV series Walker, Texas Ranger.

Gena O'Kelley

Chuck Norris' current wife, whom he married in 1998. She is the CEO of CForce, a water bottling facility they own together.

Dianne Kay Holechek

Chuck Norris' first wife, whom he was married to for 30 years before they divorced in 1989.

Dina

Chuck Norris' daughter from an extramarital relationship during his time in the U.S. Air Force.

Mike Norris

One of Chuck Norris' two sons from his first marriage to Dianne Kay Holechek.

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What they’re saying

“I don't age. I level up.”

— Chuck Norris (Instagram)

“I'm 86 today! Nothing like some playful action on a sunny day to make you feel young. I'm grateful for another year, good health and the chance to keep doing what I love. Thank you all for being the best fans in the world. Your support through the years has meant more to me than you'll ever know.”

— Chuck Norris (Instagram)

The takeaway

At 86 years old, Chuck Norris continues to defy his age, remaining physically active and dedicated to his non-profit organization that helps empower youth through martial arts. His enduring spirit and commitment to his craft and community serve as an inspiration to his legions of fans.