Chuck Norris, the martial arts master and action star who became a cultural icon through film, television, and later internet legend, has died at the age of 86.

His family confirmed he died Thursday in what they described as a sudden passing, saying he was surrounded by loved ones and at peace.

Born Carlos Ray Norris in Ryan, Oklahoma, Norris rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most recognizable figures in martial arts and action entertainment. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, where he began training in martial arts during a deployment to Korea, he went on to become a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion.

He later founded his own martial arts system, Chun Kuk Do, and established the United Fighting Arts Federation, training thousands of students and earning recognition as a 10th-degree black belt.

Norris transitioned into acting after encouragement from actor Steve McQueen, beginning with a small role in The Wrecking Crew. He gained widespread attention after his on-screen fight with Bruce Lee in the 1972 film Return of the Dragon, a scene that remains one of the most iconic martial arts showdowns in cinema.

He went on to star in a series of action films, including Missing in Action and The Delta Force, before taking on his most famous role as Cordell Walker in the long-running television series Walker, Texas Ranger. The show ran for nine seasons and cemented his image as a principled, no-nonsense lawman.

In later years, Norris experienced a resurgence in popularity through the viral “Chuck Norris Facts” phenomenon, which turned his tough-guy persona into a larger-than-life internet myth. Rather than resist the trend, he embraced it, publishing The Official Chuck Norris Fact Book and using the attention to support charitable causes.

Beyond entertainment, Norris was outspoken about his Christian faith, supported conservative political causes, and co-founded a nonprofit initiative with former President George H. W. Bush aimed at promoting character development and martial arts training for youth. He also endorsed Donald Trump during the 2016 election.

Norris is survived by five children and his wife, Gena.

His legacy spans martial arts excellence, Hollywood stardom, and a rare transformation into a modern folk hero, one whose name became synonymous with strength, discipline, and an enduring sense of humor.