India, March 20 -- Chuck Norris, the martial arts grandmaster and Hollywood action icon best known for his role in Walker, Texas Ranger, has died at the age of 86 following what his family described as a "sudden passing."

In a statement shared on social media, his family said Norris died on Thursday, surrounded by loved ones.

Born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most recognizable faces in action entertainment.

His journey into martial arts began during his service in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in South Korea and trained in disciplines like judo and Tang Soo Do.

Norris transitioned to Hollywood with early appearances such as The Wreckin...