At the age of 86, Carlos Ray “Chuck” Norris passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026. Renowned as an actor, screenwriter, author and martial artist, his reputation as a tough guy made fans create jokes about how inhuman feats were done by Norris himself, fostering a group of fans who saw him as a strong inspiration.

He was born March 10, 1940 in Oklahoma and grew to become a well decorated man with a Hollywood star, 2001 Veteran of the Year and several black belts as his most noticeable achievements. He created his own discipline systems titled the Chuck Norris System (formerly Chun Kuk Do) in 1990 and American Tang Soo Do in 1966. 

Film-wise he’s most known for work in Walker, Texas Ranger (1993-2001) which, along with living on a ranch in Texas, earned him a title as an Honorary Texan. Additionally, he can be known for roles in Way of the Dragon (1972) and Missing in Action (1984), the former of which brought upon his role as an action star in the 80s.

Norris brought outreach to help others learn martial arts, influenced TV heroism, became a pop-culture phenomenon and helped blend martial arts and Western media in TV shows and movies. And, from Norris’ personal code implemented into his system: Look for the good in all people and make them feel worthwhile. Rest in peace, Chuck Norris.