Chuck Norris, the United States martial artist and Hollywood action star, has died aged 86, his family has confirmed.
Norris was known for his role in the action crime series ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ and also appeared in ‘The Delta Force’, ‘Missing in Action’ and ‘The Way Of The Dragon’.
His family announced his death “with heavy hearts” in a statement posted on Instagram.
“He lived his life with faith, purpose and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved,” they say.
“Through his work, discipline and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”
The statement adds: “To the world, he was a martial artist, actor and a symbol of strength.
“To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother and the heart of our family.”
Born Carlos Ray Norris in Oklahoma in 1940, he joined the US Air Force as a teenager.
While stationed in South Korea, Norris began training in martial arts. He went on to win a black belt, winning karate championships in the 1960s.
His big screen break came after meeting martial arts film star Bruce Lee, who he fought in 1972’s ‘Way Of The Dragon’.
He went on to star as himself in the 1980s films ‘Missing In Action’ and ‘Delta Force’ before featuring in the TV show ‘Walker, Texas Ranger from 1993 to 2001.
His final big screen credit came in the 2012 movie ‘The Expendables 2’.
Away from the screen, Norris promoted fitness by founding martial arts schools and in more recent years became the subject of a string of internet memes.
– BBC
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