Chuck Norris got his big break on the big screen after meeting martial arts film star Bruce Lee in 1972.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Hollywood actor and popular American martial artist Chuck Norris has passed away at the age of 86.
His death was announced by his family on Friday in a now-viral statement posted on Instagram.
According to the family, Norris inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on many lives through his work, discipline, and kindness.
He was also described as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and an incredible brother.
His family stated: “He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”
The statement added: “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.
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While stationed in South Korea, Norris began training in martial arts.
He later won karate championships in the 1960s and seamlessly integrated his authentic combat skills into his screen work.
His big break on the big screen came after meeting martial arts film star Bruce Lee, who invited the reigning karate champion to play the final villain, Colt, in the 1972 film The Way of the Dragon.
Norris was best known for his roles in the 1990s action-crime series Walker, Texas Ranger and for fighting superstar Lee in the 1972 martial arts classic.
His last big-screen credits came in the 2012 movie The Expendables 2 and the forthcoming Australian action-comedy film Zombie Plane.
Away from the screen, Norris promoted fitness, founded martial arts schools, and was an outspoken supporter of US conservative politics.
According to TMZ, he was admitted to hospital in Hawaii for a medical emergency on Thursday.
He is survived by his five children and his wife, Gena O’Kelley.
