Chuck Norris, the Hollywood action star who became a global internet phenomenon through viral memes, has died at the age of 86, his family confirmed.
Best known for his roles in films such as The Way of the Dragon and Missing in Action, as well as the long-running TV series Walker, Texas Ranger, Norris built a reputation as one of the most recognisable action figures of his generation.
However, for many younger audiences, his legacy extended beyond film and television. In the early 2000s, «Chuck Norris facts» emerged on online message boards, portraying him in humorous, exaggerated terms as an invincible, almost mythical figure. The jokes quickly spread across social media, introducing the actor to a new generation that often knew him more for memes than his on-screen work.
Born in Oklahoma in 1940, Norris began his career in the U.S. Air Force before becoming a martial arts champion and later transitioning into acting. His breakthrough came alongside Bruce Lee, after which he starred in more than 20 films.
Tributes have poured in from public figures and fans worldwide. U.S. President Donald Trump described Norris as a «great guy» and a «tough cookie,» while family members remembered him as a loving grandfather and a devoted family man.
Despite the evolution of internet culture, the «Chuck Norris facts» meme continues to circulate online, cementing his status as both a pop culture icon and a symbol of early internet humour.
«While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace,» his family said.
Norris is survived by his wife, five children and 13 grandchildren.
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