Action Icon Chuck Norris Dies at 86
Chuck Norris, the celebrated actor and martial artist known for his roles in action films like Good Guys Wear Black and the television series Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86. The news has prompted tributes from across the entertainment world and beyond.
Norris was a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, endorsing him in 2016 and subsequently writing opinion pieces in support of his 2020 and 2024 presidential campaigns. According to reports, Norris and Trump first met in 1991 at WrestleMania VII in Los Angeles, California.
In a recollection published by The List, Norris recalled announcing his retirement as World Martial Arts Champion in 1974. When Trump questioned his decision, Norris said he replied, “‘I want to retire a winner.'” Norris wrote that this reasoning “apparently appealed to Trump,” adding, “I liked him. He was exceptionally friendly and sincere.” Footage also shows the two shaking hands at a 1991 WrestleMania event, though Norris reportedly didn’t recall the encounter decades later.
During the 2020 election, Norris further expressed his support for Trump, penning an op-ed detailing what he considered to be the former president’s 15 biggest successes during his first term. He promoted the piece on his Facebook page, stating it was difficult to narrow down his list, as there were “so many [successes] that have been so helpful to America and the world.”
Norris’s passing comes as Polish broadcaster Polsat has altered its programming to honor the actor, according to Onet. The news has sparked a wave of reactions, with many remembering Norris as an American pop culture icon, as noted by Wyborcza.pl.
News of Norris’s death has reportedly surprised those close to him, with some outlets noting his seemingly ageless vitality, as reported by Medonet.
WP Film reports on the status of Norris’s final film project, a zombie movie, following his passing.
The actor’s death occurred amidst growing tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and NATO, and a significant decision from the National Security Agency, as reported by TVN24.