Carlos Ray Norris was born in Ryan, Oklahoma, on March 10, 1940. His family announced on his Instagram account on March 20 that Chuck Norris died on Thursday, March 19.
Release Date
02/20/2026
The square-jawed martial artist and iconic actor, a Hollywood action hero who became a symbol of rugged American masculinity as the star of the TV series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” numerous films, and later as a popular internet meme.
Chuck, who grew up in poverty, moved with his family to Torrance, California, at the age of 12 and joined the United States Air Force after graduating high school in 1958. It was during a deployment to Korea that he began training in martial arts, including judo and Tang Soo Do.
He practiced gymnastics and played football at North Torrance High School, mentioning, “I was never really athletic until I was in the military in Korea.” After being honorably discharged in 1962, he worked as a file clerk at Northrop Aircraft and applied to become a police officer, but was placed on the waiting list.
Meanwhile, he opened a martial arts studio, which expanded into a chain, with students including stars like Bob Barker, Priscilla Presley, Donny and Marie Osmond, and Steve McQueen, whom he later acknowledged encouraging to pursue acting.
Chuck turned 86 on March 10th and that same day posted a video of himself boxing outdoors. To highlight his lifestyle, he included a clip of himself throwing an impressive body punch at his training partner, saying in the video, “I don’t get old. I level up.” “Today I’m 86! Nothing like a little fun action on a sunny day to feel young.” “Thankful for another year, good health, and the opportunity to continue doing what I love. Thank you all for being the best fans in the world. Your support over the years has meant so much to me.”
