Amanze Chinonye
Legendary martial artist and actor Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86, his family announced on Friday.
The iconic star best known for his work in Hollywood action films and the long-running television series Walker, Texas Ranger passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, after a brief medical emergency in Kauai, Hawaii.
In a statement shared on his official social media accounts, the Norris family said he died peacefully and was surrounded by loved ones. While they did not disclose a specific cause of death, they asked for privacy and expressed gratitude for the support from fans around the world.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelBorn Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, Norris rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most recognizable figures in action entertainment.
After serving in the United States Air Force, where he began his martial-arts training, he went on to become a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate Champion.
Norris’s Hollywood career included roles in action films such as Missing in Action, The Delta Force and an early fight scene with Bruce Lee in The Way of the Dragon. His greatest mainstream fame came from his portrayal of lawman Cordell Walker on Walker, Texas Ranger, which ran from 1993 to 2001 and made him a household name.
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Beyond acting, Norris founded his own martial art, Chun Kuk Do, and established the United Fighting Arts Federation to teach discipline and self-respect to students worldwide. He also authored books on martial arts, philosophy, and personal development.
Just nine days before his death, Norris shared a video on social media of himself training, captioned: “I don’t age. I level up,” reflecting his trademark toughness and humor.
In their statement, the family described him as “a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather,” as well as “the heart of our family,” whose life was guided by faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.
Norris is survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, and five children. Tributes from fans, fellow performers, and martial artists have poured in worldwide, honoring his contributions to cinema and popular culture.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
