00:00Chuck Norris, the martial arts champion known for starring in 1980s action movies like Missing in Action
00:05and the long-running CBS drama Walker, Texas Ranger, has died. He was 86.
00:11His family announced in a statement that Norris died suddenly on Thursday after being hospitalized.
00:17They said,
00:18To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength.
00:22To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our
00:28family.
00:28He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved.
00:33Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many
00:40lives.
00:41They noted that they, quote, would like to keep the circumstances private,
00:44but to please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.
00:48Norris was encouraged to become an actor by Steve McQueen, to whom he gave private karate lessons,
00:53after he retired from being a competitive martial artist.
00:55Norris had his breakthrough with 1983's Lone Wolf McQuaid,
00:59playing a Texas ranger who faces off against an arms merchant and martial arts master.
01:04He went on to star in 1984's Missing in Action, and though the film was blasted by critics,
01:09it was beloved by audiences, spawning a 1985 prequel and 1988 sequel.
01:14Norris continued his hot streak with Code of Silence and Invasion USA in 1985,
01:19as well as Firewalker and the Delta Force in 1986, which also led to a follow-up in 1990.
01:25Walker Texas Ranger debuted in April 1993 and saw Norris play a U.S. Marine-turned-Texas Ranger for nine
01:32seasons and about 200 episodes.
01:35For much more on the life and career of Chuck Norris and for tributes, go to THR.com.
01:40This is The Hollywood Reporter News.
Comments