Chuck Norris: Martial Arts Legend Passes Away

0:00On March 20, Chuck Norris, the legendary martial arts champion and actor star known for Walker Texas Ranger, has died at age 86. His family called it a sudden passing on Thursday, saying he was surrounded by loved ones and at peace. Norris built a tough guy image through decades of films and TV that made him a pop culture icon. Earlier in life, Norris dominated karate competitions, winning six undefeated world middleweight titles. He created his own style called tune, Cooke, Doe, and led the United Fighting Arts Federation, which trained thousands worldwide, including over three, thousand black belts in his system. Growing up poor and Oklahoma in California, he joined the Air Force in 1958, discovering martial arts during a posting in Korea. After discharge in 1962, he built a chain of studios with celebrity students like Steve McQueen, who pushed him into acting. His big break came opposite Bruce Lee and a famous 1972 fight scene. Norris starred in over 20 movies like Missing in Action and the Delta Force.

1:03Then led Walker Texas Ranger for nine seasons, earning Honorary, Texas Ranger status. His image exploded with viral Chuck Norris facts online, which he embraced in books and even political endorsements. He leaves five children and a lasting legacy of heroism, fitness, and fun means. Right up to his recent birthday post joking that he does not age. He levels up. Fans worldwide will miss the man who turned toughness into timeless entertainment.