Chuck Norris, Martial arts and acting legend, has died at the age of 86.

Chuck Norris, the legendary martial artist and action film star known for his roles in Walker, Texas Ranger and numerous movies and television appearances, has reportedly died at the age of 86. His tough-guy image made him a cultural icon, inspiring both internet memes and admiration from public figures, including U.S. presidents.

According to a statement shared by his family, Norris passed away on Thursday in what they described as an unexpected loss.“Although we prefer to keep the details private, we want people to know he was surrounded by loved ones and passed peacefully,” the family wrote on social media.

Before rising to fame in Hollywood, Norris built an impressive reputation in competitive martial arts. He became a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion. He also created his own martial arts system, Chun Kuk Do, and founded the United Fighting Arts Federation, which has awarded thousands of black belts worldwide. In recognition of his contributions, Black Belt magazine honored him with a 10th-degree black belt, the highest distinction in the discipline.

Born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, he grew up in modest circumstances. At age 12, he relocated with his family to Torrance, California. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1958. It was during his service in Korea that he began training in martial arts such as judo and Tang Soo Do.

Reflecting on his early years, Norris once noted that he wasn’t particularly athletic in school, despite trying sports like football and gymnastics. It wasn’t until his time in the military that he truly found his physical abilities.

After leaving the Air Force in 1962, Norris worked as a file clerk and briefly pursued a career in law enforcement. At the same time, he opened a martial arts studio, which eventually grew into a successful chain. His students included several celebrities, such as Steve McQueen, who later encouraged him to pursue acting.

Norris entered the film industry with a small, uncredited role in the 1968 movie The Wrecking Crew, where he appeared alongside Dean Martin. He had also formed a connection with Bruce Lee, which led to a memorable fight scene in the 1972 film Return of the Dragon, set in Rome’s Colosseum.

Over the years, he appeared in more than 20 films, including Missing in Action, The Delta Force, and Sidekicks, establishing himself as a defining action hero of his era. He often spoke about wanting to portray clear-cut heroes audiences could root for.

In 1993, Norris took on his most recognizable role as Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger, a crime drama that ran for nine seasons. His portrayal of the principled lawman became a defining part of his legacy. In recognition of his cultural impact, then–Texas Governor Rick Perry named him an honorary Texas Ranger, and he was later also declared an honorary Texan by the state senate.