Chuck Norris, Action Star and American Icon, Dies at 86

Chuck Norris, the martial artist, action film star, and television icon beloved by generations of fans, has died. He was 86 years old. His family announced today that Norris died in Hawaii on Thursday, surrounded by his loved ones, though they say they will "keep the circumstances" behind his passing private.

Norris first captured the public's attention when he squared off against Bruce Lee in the 1972 film "The Way of the Dragon," launching a Hollywood career that would span decades. He went on to star in a string of action films through the 1980s, including "The Octagon," "Lone Wolf McQuade," "Missing in Action," and "The Delta Force."

It was his role as the title character in the television series "Walker, Texas Ranger," however, that cemented his status as a household name. The show ran from 1993 to 2001 across nearly 200 episodes, making Norris a symbol of rugged American toughness and earning him a devoted following that only grew with time.

Beyond Hollywood, Norris served in the United States Air Force and became one of the internet's most enduring pop culture figures, the subject of countless jokes and memes celebrating his larger-than-life persona.

His family has asked for privacy as they grieve.