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Chuck Norris through the years: Photos from the moments that made him a beloved star

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Published  March 20, 2026 10:44am EDT
Entertainment
FOX 5 Atlanta
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Chuck Norris wrestling with a military squad member in a scene from the film 'Delta Force 2', 1990. (Photo by Cannon Pictures/Getty Images)

The Brief

    • Actor and martial artist Chuck Norris died March 19 in Hawaii
    • Norris was familiar to fans worldwide as the star of action films such as "The Hitman," "The Delta Force" and "The Colombian Connection." He also starred in "Missing in Action," "Firewalker" and "Sidekicks."
    • Norris made his film debut as an uncredited bodyguard in the 1968 movie "The Wrecking Crew," and went on to act in more than 20 movies.

Actor and martial artist Chuck Norris died Thursday, March 19 after being hospitalized in Hawaii.  His career spanned decades and he developed a worldwide following. A look back at his biggest roles.

The backstory:

Norris rose to fame in blockbuster martial action movies for more than four decades.  His breakout role as the arch nemesis of Bruce Lee in The Return of the Dragon.  He also starred in Delta Force, Missing in Action, Lone Wolf McQuade, Code of Silence, and the Expendables 2. He also starred in the long-running television series, "Walker: Texas Ranger." 

Check out the gallery to see photos throughout his career.  

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'Missing in Action' or 'Portés disparus' 1984 directed by Joseph Zito. (Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Getty Images)

The Source: Information in this article was sourced from previous FOX Local reporting and Getty Images.  This story was reported from Orlando.

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