Chuck Norris, born Carlos Ray “Chuck” Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, is an American martial artist, actor, film producer, and screenwriter. He holds black belts in Tang Soo Do, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and judo. After serving in the United States Air Force, Norris won numerous martial arts championships and later founded his own discipline, Chun Kuk Do.
Norris’s entry into the entertainment industry began with a minor role in “The Wrecking Crew” (1968). His breakthrough came when Bruce Lee invited him to play the main antagonist in “The Way of the Dragon” (1972), leading to further roles in action films such as “Good Guys Wear Black” (1978) and “Lone Wolf McQuade” (1983). He gained significant fame for his roles in the “Missing in Action” series (1984–1988) and the television series “Walker, Texas Ranger” (1993–2001), where he also served as an executive producer.
Beyond acting, Norris is a devout Christian and has authored several books on martial arts, exercise, philosophy, politics, and Christianity. He has been involved in various charitable activities, including programs aimed at preventing drug use among youth.
In the mid-2000s, Norris became the subject of an internet meme known as “Chuck Norris Facts,” which are satirical factoids and hyperbolic claims that portray him as an all-powerful, larger-than-life character. Norris has expressed amusement at these jokes, stating that he finds some of them funny.
As of March 2025, Chuck Norris is 85 years old and continues to be a prominent figure in martial arts and popular culture.