Martial artist and actor Chuck Norris dies aged 86

American actor and martial artist Chuck Norris has died aged 86, his family has confirmed.

Norris - who is known for starring with his late friend Bruce Lee in The Way Of The Dragon (1972) and in US action TV series Walker, Texas Ranger as the titular character - was remembered as "a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather" and "an incredible brother" by his family.

The actor was the prolific star of nearly forty action movies that burnished his image as a tough guy with principles who often took on bullies.

He also regularly played special ops military men operating on dangerous missions abroad and dispensing a particularly gung-ho version of American justice .

Norris had long been the subject of a series of ironic jokes and satirical online memes, which made extravagant claims about his strength and prowess as a martial arts fighter.

"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."
They said Norris, who was born in Oklahoma, "lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved", and said his work "inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives".

"The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it.

To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends.

"We know many of you had heard about his recent hospitalization, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way.

"As we grieve this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family during this time.

"Thank you for loving him with us."
Norris made his last film appearance as himself in Australian action comedy film Zombie Plane and is also known for roles in The Expendables 2 , The Delta Force and Code Of Silence .

Norris served in the US Air Force prior to his acting career, and was a black belt in Karate, Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do, Brazilian jiu jitsu, and judo - he also founded his own discipline Chun Kuk Do.

Following his appearance as villain Colt in The Way Of The Dragon , Norris's friend, Bullitt actor Steve McQueen, suggested he took acting more seriously, and a starring role in 1977 action film Breaker!

Breaker!

followed, along with a second lead in Good Guys Wear Black (1978).

Norris then became a household name after starring in the martial arts films A Force Of One (1979), The Octagon (1980), and An Eye For An Eye (1981), appearing with the late Christopher Lee in the latter.

Norris also had a daughter called Dina from an extramarital relationship during his time in the US Air Force.