History of Chuck Norris in Timeline
Chuck Norris is a renowned American martial artist and actor with black belts in Tang Soo Do, Brazilian jiu jitsu, and judo. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, he achieved success in martial arts championships and established his own discipline, Chun Kuk Do. He also trained celebrities in martial arts in Hollywood. Norris began his acting career with a minor role in "The Wrecking Crew" (1968) and later played a villain in Bruce Lee's "Way of the Dragon" (1972). Encouraged by Steve McQueen, Norris pursued acting seriously, leading to his breakout role in "Breaker! Breaker!" (1977), followed by the hit "Good Guys Wear Black" (1978), which cemented his status as an action film star.
March 10, 1940: Birth of Chuck Norris
Chuck Norris was born on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma.
1941: Birth of Dianne Kay Holechek
Dianne Kay Holechek, Chuck Norris's first wife, was born in 1941.
1956: Meeting Dianne Kay Holechek
Chuck Norris met Dianne Kay Holechek at high school in Torrance, California in 1956.
December 1958: Marriage to Dianne Kay Holechek
Chuck Norris married Dianne Kay Holechek in December 1958.
1958: Joins Air Force
Chuck Norris joined the United States Air Force in 1958 and began his martial arts training.
August 1962: Discharge from Air Force
Chuck Norris was discharged from the Air Force in August 1962 and pursued a career in law enforcement while opening a martial arts studio.
1962: Birth of Mike Norris
Chuck Norris's first son, Mike, was born in 1962.
1963: Birth of Daughter
Chuck Norris had a daughter out of wedlock in 1963.
1964: Birth of Eric Norris
Chuck Norris's second son, Eric, was born in 1964.
1966: American Tang Soo Do Formation
Chuck Norris formed American Tang Soo Do, a combination of various martial arts styles, in 1966.
1967: Martial Arts Tournament Victories
In 1967, Chuck Norris won several martial arts tournaments, including the S. Henry Cho's All-American Karate Championship.
November 24, 1968: Professional Middleweight Karate Champion
On November 24, 1968, Chuck Norris won the Professional Middleweight Karate champion title, a title he held for six consecutive years.
1968: Acting Debut
Chuck Norris made his acting debut in a minor role in the film "The Wrecking Crew" in 1968.
1969: International Karate Championship and Fighter of the Year
In 1969, Chuck Norris defended his world champion title at the International Karate Championship and was named Fighter of the Year by Black Belt magazine.
June 1970: Brother Wieland's Death in Vietnam
In June 1970, Chuck Norris's younger brother, Wieland, was killed in action in Vietnam while serving in the 101st Airborne Division.
1972: Way of the Dragon Success
Chuck Norris's role as Bruce Lee's nemesis in "Way of the Dragon" in 1972 is widely credited with launching him towards stardom.
1973: The Student Teachers
Chuck Norris appeared in "The Student Teachers" in 1973.
1974: Early Acting Career and Martial Arts Training
In 1974, Chuck Norris took acting classes at MGM on the advice of his friend and student, Steve McQueen. He also played the antagonist in "Yellow Faced Tiger," later released in the US as "Slaughter in San Francisco" in 1981.
1975: "Winning Tournament Karate" Publication
Chuck Norris authored his first book, "Winning Tournament Karate," in 1975, focusing on practical competition training techniques.
1977: First Starring Role in "Breaker! Breaker!"
Chuck Norris landed his first starring role in the successful low-budget film "Breaker! Breaker!" in 1977, choosing it for its story-driven approach to action.
1977: Breaker! Breaker!
Chuck Norris starred in the action film "Breaker! Breaker!" in 1977, which became a profitable venture and furthered his acting career.
1978: Good Guys Wear Black
In 1978, Chuck Norris starred in "Good Guys Wear Black", which became a hit and solidified his status as a popular action film star.
1978: Breakthrough with "Good Guys Wear Black"
In 1978, Chuck Norris starred in "Good Guys Wear Black," a film he considers his first significant lead role. The film's success established him as a prominent American martial arts star.
1979: Starring in "A Force of One"
Chuck Norris continued his success in 1979 with "A Force of One," playing a karate champion assisting the police. The film outperformed "Good Guys Wear Black" at the box office.
1979: A Force of One
Chuck Norris starred in "A Force of One" in 1979, which contributed to his rising international celebrity status.
1980: The Octagon
In 1980, Chuck Norris starred in "The Octagon", further cementing his status as an action star.
1980: Release of "The Octagon"
In 1980, Chuck Norris starred in "The Octagon," a film about stopping ninja-trained terrorists. Unlike his previous films, this one attracted studio interest and was distributed by American Cinema Releasing.
1981: An Eye for an Eye
Chuck Norris continued his action film streak with "An Eye for an Eye" in 1981.
1981: Starring in "An Eye for an Eye"
Chuck Norris starred in the film "An Eye for an Eye" in 1981, directed by Steve Carver.
1981: "Slaughter in San Francisco" US Release
Chuck Norris's film "Yellow Faced Tiger," where he plays a drug kingpin, was released in the United States as "Slaughter in San Francisco" in 1981. The film gained attention due to Norris's growing fame.
1982: Lead Role in "Silent Rage" and "Forced Vengeance"
Chuck Norris starred in "Silent Rage" in 1982, his first film released by a major studio (Columbia Pictures). He also starred in "Forced Vengeance" under a short-lived contract with MGM.
1982: Silent Rage and Forced Vengeance
In 1982, Chuck Norris appeared in "Silent Rage" with Columbia and "Forced Vengeance" with MGM, marking his transition to studio films.
1983: Lone Wolf McQuade
Chuck Norris starred in "Lone Wolf McQuade" with Orion in 1983.
1983: "Lone Wolf McQuade," "Toughen Up!," and Video Game Release
In 1983, Chuck Norris starred in the successful film "Lone Wolf McQuade," which inspired his later TV show "Walker, Texas Ranger." He also published the exercise book "Toughen Up!" and had a video game, "Chuck Norris Superkicks," released.
1984: "Missing in Action" and Cannon Films Deal
Chuck Norris starred in the highly successful "Missing in Action" in 1984, marking the beginning of his collaboration with Cannon Films. He dedicated the film to his brother Wieland.
1984: Political Views
In 1984, Chuck Norris stated his support for Ronald Reagan and conservative values.
1984: Missing in Action
The release of "Missing in Action" in 1984, the start of a trilogy, marked a significant success for Chuck Norris and the beginning of his multiple film deal with Cannon Films.
March 1, 1985: "Missing in Action 2" Premiere
"Missing in Action 2: The Beginning," a prequel to the first installment, premiered on March 1, 1985.
1985: Invasion U.S.A. and Code of Silence
In 1985, Chuck Norris starred in "Invasion U.S.A." with Cannon Films and "Code of Silence", which was well-received and considered one of his best.
February 14, 1986: "The Delta Force" Premiere
"The Delta Force," starring Chuck Norris and Lee Marvin, premiered on February 14, 1986, and became a box office success.
1986: The Delta Force and Firewalker
Chuck Norris starred in "The Delta Force" and "Firewalker" with Cannon Films in 1986.
1986: Views on Terrorism
In 1986, Chuck Norris expressed concern about the United States' response to terrorism, particularly related to the hijacking of TWA flight 847, suggesting the U.S. is becoming a "paper tiger" in the Middle East. He voiced worry about the potential for increased global terrorism and a belief that America and Canada could be future targets due to their open societies. Norris also cited Muammar Gaddafi's past threat of releasing "killer squads" in the U.S. as a credible concern.
1987: Publication of "The Secret of Inner Strength"
Chuck Norris published his best-selling book, "The Secret of Inner Strength: My Story," in 1987, sharing his philosophy on self-improvement.
January 2, 1988: "Braddock: Missing in Action III" Premiere
"Braddock: Missing in Action III," with Chuck Norris returning to the title role, premiered on January 2, 1988.
1988: The Secret of Inner Strength: My Story
Chuck Norris published "The Secret of Inner Strength: My Story" in 1988, which became a New York Times bestseller.
1988: Separation from Dianne Kay Holechek
Chuck Norris separated from his wife, Dianne Kay Holechek, in 1988.
1989: Divorce from Dianne Kay Holechek
Chuck Norris divorced Dianne Kay Holechek in 1989.
1990: Career Milestone and Film Acquisitions
By 1990, Chuck Norris's films had grossed over $500 million worldwide. MGM acquired the Cannon Films library, and Norris continued making films with his brother Aaron.
1990: Chun Kuk Do Founding
Chuck Norris founded the martial art Chun Kuk Do, based on his Tang Soo Do training, in 1990.
1990: Illegitimate Daughter's Letter
Chuck Norris's illegitimate daughter sent him a letter informing him of their relationship in 1990.
1990: Establishment of United Fighting Arts Federation and Kickstart Kids
In 1990, Chuck Norris founded the United Fighting Arts Federation and Kickstart Kids, a program to teach martial arts to at-risk children.
August 25, 1993: Wind in the Wire Appearance
On August 25, 1993, Chuck Norris appeared as a guest on the Randy Travis television special "Wind in the Wire."
1993: Release of "Sidekicks"
Chuck Norris starred in "Sidekicks," directed by his brother Aaron, in 1993.
1993: Walker, Texas Ranger Begins
Chuck Norris took on the title role in "Walker, Texas Ranger" in 1993, a long-running television series that aired until 2001.
1994: Release of "Hellbound"
"Hellbound," directed by Aaron Norris and starring Chuck Norris, was released in 1994.
1994: WWF Survivor Series Appearance
In 1994, Chuck Norris was the special outside enforcer for a match at the World Wrestling Federation's Survivor Series, even delivering a memorable roundhouse kick.
1995: Release of "Top Dog"
Chuck Norris starred in "Top Dog," directed by Aaron Norris, in 1995.
1995: Walker, Texas Ranger Ratings Success
From 1995 to 1999, "Walker, Texas Ranger" consistently ranked among the Top 30 television programs, even reaching the Top 20 during the 1995-1996 and 1998-1999 seasons.
1996: The Secret Power Within Publication
Chuck Norris authored the book "The Secret Power Within: Zen Solutions to Real Problems" in 1996.
1996: Release of "Forest Warrior"
Chuck Norris starred in "Forest Warrior," directed by his brother Aaron, in 1996.
1996: Walker, Texas Ranger Ratings Success
In the 1995-1996 season, Walker Texas Ranger ranked among the top 20 programs.
1997: Total Gym Infomercials
Starting in 1997, Chuck Norris began appearing with Christie Brinkley in infomercials for Total Gym home fitness equipment.
November 28, 1998: Marriage to Gena O'Kelley
Chuck Norris married Gena O'Kelley on November 28, 1998.
1998: Walker, Texas Ranger Ratings Success
In the 1998-1999 season, Walker Texas Ranger ranked among the top 20 programs.
1999: Walker, Texas Ranger Spin-off and Crossover
In 1999, Chuck Norris produced and starred in the "Walker, Texas Ranger" spin-off "Sons of Thunder." He also participated in a crossover episode with Sammo Hung's "Martial Law."
2000: The President's Man
In 2000, Chuck Norris starred as a secret agent in the CBS television film "The President's Man."
August 30, 2001: Birth of Twins
Gena O'Kelley gave birth to twins on August 30, 2001.
2001: Walker, Texas Ranger Ends
In 2001, "Walker, Texas Ranger" concluded its run, marking the end of a significant chapter in Chuck Norris's career.
2001: Veteran of the Year Award
On 2001, Chuck Norris received the Veteran of the Year award at the American Veteran Awards. This recognition was due to his significant contributions and ongoing support for hospitalized war veterans, advocating for issues like pensions and healthcare. His dedication stemmed from his Air Force service in Korea and subsequent work as a spokesperson for the U.S. Veterans Administration.
2002: The President's Man: A Line in the Sand
Chuck Norris reprised his role as a secret agent in the 2002 CBS television film "The President's Man: A Line in the Sand."
2003: Bells of Innocence and Yes, Dear
In 2003, Chuck Norris appeared in the Christian film "Bells of Innocence" and an episode of the TV show "Yes, Dear."
September 22, 2004: Meeting Illegitimate Daughter
On September 22, 2004, Chuck Norris revealed he met his illegitimate daughter.
2004: DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story
Chuck Norris played himself as a judge in the successful comedy film "DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story" in 2004.
2005: Chuck Norris Facts
Chuck Norris facts emerged as an internet meme in 2005, gaining widespread popularity and leading to various endorsements and appearances for Norris.
2005: World Combat League Founding
Chuck Norris founded the World Combat League (WCL), a full-contact martial arts competition, in 2005, with proceeds benefiting his Kickstart Kids program.
2006: End of Lead Roles
Chuck Norris continued taking lead roles in action movies until 2006.
2006: The Cutter and The Justice Riders
In 2006, Chuck Norris starred in the film "The Cutter" and co-authored the novel "The Justice Riders."
2007: Visit to Troops in Iraq
Chuck Norris visited U.S. troops in Iraq in 2007.
April 22, 2008: Support for Intelligent Design
On April 22, 2008, Chuck Norris expressed his support for the intelligent design movement.
September 2008: Black Belt Patriotism and Chuck Norris: Bring On the Pain
In September 2008, Chuck Norris published the political book "Black Belt Patriotism," which became a New York Times bestseller. Also, the video game "Chuck Norris: Bring On the Pain" was released for mobile devices.
November 18, 2008: Support for Proposition 8
On November 18, 2008, Chuck Norris expressed support for California's Proposition 8, banning same-sex marriage.
2008: Support for Mike Huckabee and Sarah Palin
Chuck Norris supported Mike Huckabee in the 2008 Republican primaries, then voiced support for John McCain and Sarah Palin in the general election.
2008: Black Belt Patriotism: How to Reawaken America
In 2008, Chuck Norris published his second New York Times bestseller, "Black Belt Patriotism: How to Reawaken America".
2008: The Truth About Chuck Norris and Lawsuit
The book "The Truth About Chuck Norris: 400 facts about the World's Greatest Human" was released in 2008, prompting a lawsuit from Norris against the publisher, which he later dropped.
2009: Support for Obama "Birther" Conspiracy
In 2009, Chuck Norris expressed support for the Barack Obama "birther" conspiracy.
2010: Nationally Syndicated Columnist
Starting in 2010, Chuck Norris became a nationally syndicated columnist, writing about personal health and broader health care issues.
April 11, 2011: Investigation of Sharia Law
On April 11, 2011, Chuck Norris published an investigation about Sharia law's influence in the US.
May 2012: Endorsement of Mitt Romney
In May 2012, Chuck Norris endorsed Mitt Romney for president after initially supporting Newt Gingrich.
June 26, 2012: Accusation against Obama Administration
On June 26, 2012, Chuck Norris accused the Obama administration of influencing the Boy Scouts of America's policy on gay members.
2012: The Expendables 2
Chuck Norris appeared in "The Expendables 2" in 2012, marking his last appearance in a major film release.
2013: Support for Benjamin Netanyahu
Chuck Norris voiced his support for Benjamin Netanyahu in the 2013 Israeli elections.
2015: Support for Benjamin Netanyahu
Chuck Norris voiced support for Benjamin Netanyahu during the 2015 Israeli elections.
March 2016: Initial Support for Ted Cruz
In March 2016, Chuck Norris initially indicated support for Ted Cruz but later clarified he would only endorse the official Republican nominee.
July 2016: Endorsement of Donald Trump
Chuck Norris endorsed Donald Trump for president in July 2016.
2017: Endorsement of Roy Moore
Chuck Norris endorsed Roy Moore in the 2017 Alabama Senate special election.
2017: Fiat Ambassador and Non Stop Chuck Norris Game
In 2017, Chuck Norris became Fiat's ambassador for commercial vehicles. The mobile game "Non Stop Chuck Norris" was also released.
2019: Chuck Norris’ Epic Guide to Military Vehicles
Chuck Norris hosted the documentary "Chuck Norris’ Epic Guide to Military Vehicles" on the History Channel in 2019.
2019: Glock Endorsement
In 2019, Chuck Norris signed an endorsement deal with Glock, which drew criticism due to the timing amidst concerns about school shootings.
2020: Hawaii Five-0 Appearance
Chuck Norris appeared in the series finale of "Hawaii Five-0" in 2020.
2021: World of Tanks Appearance
Chuck Norris was featured as a tank-commander in the game "World of Tanks" during the Holiday Ops event in 2021.
2021: Support for Recall of Gavin Newsom and Endorsement of Larry Elder
In 2021, Chuck Norris supported the recall of California Governor Gavin Newsom and endorsed Larry Elder.
