Hollywood action legend Chuck Norris, 83, is well known for his tough-guy roles in action films and series. Most notably, his fans recognize him from the famous “Walker, Texas Ranger” series, which aired from 1993 to 2001. Apart from being an iconic action figure in the entertainment industry, the martial artist is also a loving husband and doting dad of twins.
He met his wife, Gena O’Kelley, 60, later on in his life while filming the popular series; the couple met through a friend who introduced them during a 12-guest dinner at a sushi restaurant. At the time, Chuck had already been courting another date that evening but became immediately enthralled with O’Kelley upon looking into her eyes. Chuck has called O’Kelley his soulmate and true Valentine ever since.
Chuck Norris and His Wife Were Blessed with Twins
Sometime after Chuck and his forever Valentine tied the knot, they welcomed twins. On August 30, 2001, their daughter, Dakota Alan Norris, and son, Danilee Kelley Norris, were born.
Though Dakota and her twin brother were born one month prematurely, there were, thankfully, no complications. The birth of their twins added two new additions to their already big family, as both Chuck and O’Kelley were previously married and had children before they married each other.
When Chuck first discovered he would become a dad of twins, the “Missing in Action” star disclosed he started to feel light-headed. He explained that while the couple was at their 5-week check-up, their doctor spotted a second baby after showing them the first on the sonogram. The doctor then told them there might be a third baby, which is what made Chuck feel dizzy.
However, it turned out to only be two babies, of which Chuck jokingly expressed relief. While speaking about his life, Chuck claimed he would not change anything and even expressed gratitude for the lows he has gone through. Of his children and family, the star reported that he feels incredibly blessed and said:
“Being a father is one of God’s greatest blessings a man can experience.”
After his children were born, Chuck decided to focus on raising his kids away from the spotlight and helping out at home instead of focusing on his career. An interviewer who profiled Chuck divulged:
“At home, away from the bright lights of Hollywood, forget strong man, Chuck’s a family man and a real softy.”
Chuck Norris and His Wife Celebrated Their Twins’ 22nd Birthday
Yesterday, the doting family man and O’Kelley celebrated their twins’ 22nd birthday. Chuck posted an endearing picture of himself, O’Kelley, Danilee, and Dakota standing side by side while sharing side hugs as they smiled at the camera.
Another picture in the same post showed a throwback photo of the family of four when Dakota and Danilee were younger. The images are considered rare because they juxtapose the parent’s usually private nature regarding his kids. In the caption, loving dad Chuck wishes them a happy day emphasizes the abundant joy they bring to their family, and boasts about how remarkable his twins are.
People may forever associate Chuck with his tough guy persona and martial arts prowess on screen.
However, it turns out that “The Way of the Dragon” talent is a big softy when it comes to his kids.