{"id":634148,"date":"2026-03-20T20:43:32","date_gmt":"2026-03-20T20:43:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/634148\/"},"modified":"2026-03-20T20:43:32","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T20:43:32","slug":"chuck-norris-dies-at-86-following-hospitalization-in-hawaii","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/634148\/","title":{"rendered":"Chuck Norris dies at 86 following hospitalization in Hawaii"},"content":{"rendered":"

Chuck Norris<\/a> has died at 86. The iconic action star and martial arts champion was best known for his role in Walker, Texas Ranger. He passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026 in Hawaii.<\/p>\n

His family posted a statement to Instagram<\/a> announcing Chuck’s death, writing: “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”<\/p>\n

Chuck, who celebrated his 86th birthday last week, was recently hospitalized following a medical emergency. His family noted: “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.”<\/p>\n

\"Chuck\u00a9 Getty ImagesChuck was surrounded by his family when he passed away<\/p>\n

The statement continued: “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.”<\/p>\n

What was Chuck Norris known for?<\/p>\n

Chuck was born Carlos Ray “Chuck” Norris on March 10, 1940. After serving in the United States Air Force, he turned to martial arts \u2013 becoming a black belt in judo, 3rd degree black belt in Brazilian Jui-Jitsu, 5th degree black belt in Karate, 8th degree black belt in Taekwondo, 9th degree black belt in Tang Soo Do and 10th degree black belt in Chun Kuk Do.<\/p>\n

\"Chuck\u00a9 Getty ImagesThe actor perfected the role of the Texas Ranger<\/p>\n

In 1972, Chuck acted opposite Bruce Lee in Way of the Dragon (a.k.a. Return of the Dragon). The role launched his acting career. Throughout the 70s and 80s, the actor starred in several films, including Good Guys Wear Black (1978), The Octagon (1980), Lone Wolf McQuade (1983), Code of Silence (1985), and Firewalker (1986).<\/p>\n

In 1993, Chuck played the title role in the long-running crime series, Walker, Texas Ranger. He starred as Sergeant Cordell Walker, a member of the Texas Rangers, for eight years, and in several spinoffs.<\/p>\n

In his later years, Chuck worked in action films and starred alongside Sylvester Stallone<\/a> in The Expendables, marking his last film appearance in 2012.<\/p>\n

\"Chuck\u00a9 Getty ImagesChuck met his second wife, Gena O’Kelley, while on a date with another woman
\nChuck’s life off-screen<\/p>\n

In 1958, Chuck married Dianne Kay Holecheck when he was just 18. The couple were together for 30 years and welcomed two children \u2013 Mike and Eric \u2013 but separated in 1988. While with Dianne, Chuck welcomed a daughter, Dina, from an extramarital relationship.<\/p>\n

\"Chuck\u00a9 Getty ImagesThe couple shared twins<\/p>\n

After their divorce, Chuck married Gena O’Kelley<\/a>, a model 23 years his junior. During their almost 30 year marriage, Chuck and Gena welcomed two children, Dakota and Danilee. The two were together until his death.<\/p>\n

The actor was a widely known supporter of conservative politics, supporting Ronald Reagan and other high profile republicans. Chuck authored several books during his lifetime, covering everything from Christian-themed topics to martial arts.<\/p>\n