Chuck Norris is celebrating his 80th birthday today (March 10). As the running joke goes, Chuck Norris doesn’t blow out birthday candles, he stares at them until they extinguish themselves.

Norris, born Charles Ray Norris, is a beloved American icon known for martial arts skills and for films such as “The Way of the Dragon” and “Good Guys Wear Black.” Most recently, he appeared in “The Expendables 2” (2012).

He is the first Westerner to hold the rank of 8th-degree black belt in taekwondo. A known philanthropist, he donates to Funds for Kids, Veteran’s Administration National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans, the United Way and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, among other organizations.

And thanks to the internet phenomenon of “Chuck Norris facts,” his persona consists of hyperbolic claims that are just too funny not to use on his 80th birthday.

About the Author

Featured

The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC