The martial arts star best known for his role in the hit TV series Walker, Texas Ranger rose to renewed fame in 2005 when he became an internet sensation—thanks to a wave of memes celebrating his larger-than-life combat scenes. His name quickly became synonymous with action and resilience, not just on screen but throughout his life. Before achieving stardom, he served as an Air Policeman in Korea, where real-world experiences shaped his passion for self-defense and discipline. That time abroad played a pivotal role in inspiring him to develop his own unique martial art form, which he later named Chun Kuk Do—a system blending elements of Tang Soo Do with other fighting techniques. His dedication to this craft only deepened over the years, further solidifying his legacy beyond entertainment.
In his personal life, he married Dianne Holechek in 1958, and the couple welcomed two sons, Mike and Eric. For decades, family remained central to his journey, even as his career soared. After parting ways with Dianne in 1998, he found new companionship with model Gena O’Kelley. The couple tied the knot and expanded their family by welcoming twins, Dakota Alan Norris and Danilee Kelly Norris. Through every chapter—military service, martial arts innovation, television stardom, and viral internet fame—his name has continued to resonate across generations. Whether fans remember him from the small screen or from meme culture, one thing remains clear: his impact stretches far beyond the roles he played.
He actually earned a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under the guidance of the Machado family, which was a big milestone for him. Around that time, he also got involved in politics—specifically, he campaigned for Mike Huckabee during the 2008 primary election. It was kind of a defining period for him, balancing martial arts growth with personal involvement in political causes. He really put himself out there, showing commitment both on the mat and in supporting the campaign.