Who Is Chuck Norris’ Wife, Gena O’Kelley? How Many Kids Do They Have?

Chuck Norris, the incredible martial arts star who was later known for his appearances on the big and small screens, died at 86 in March 2026. He’s survived by his wife, Gena O’Kelley, and his children. So, who is O’Kelley, and how many kids did they have together during his lifetime? Here’s what to know about their marriage through the years.

Who is Chuck Norris’ wife, Gena O’Kelley? They met on the set of ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’

Gena O’Kelley is best known as the longtime wife of Chuck Norris. However, she has her own background in modeling and television. Born in 1963, O’Kelley worked as a model and later appeared in small TV roles, including a guest spot on Walker, Texas Ranger, the hit show that helped make Norris a household name. According to The U.S. Sun, Norris asked O’Kelley on a date shortly after she played a small role on the show. The couple married in 1998.

Over the years, O’Kelley has largely stayed out of the spotlight. The couple’s relationship has remained notably private despite Norris’ high-profile career. They notably worked together on Kickstart Kids, a foundation he started in 1990 to empower kids through karate. O’Kelley also served as CEO of their water bottling facility, CForce, which she and Norris founded in 2015.

In more recent years, O’Kelley has drawn public attention due to serious health issues she says began after undergoing MRI scans involving contrast agents. Norris has spoken out in support of his wife, even stepping back from acting for a period to care for her. The couple later filed lawsuits against medical companies over the matter, according to The Washington Post. This brought wider awareness to her condition and sparked conversation about the safety of certain medical procedures.

In 2018, Norris posted a sweet Facebook tribute to O’Kelley, calling her the love of his life.

“22 years ago I met the love of my life,” he captioned the post, which included a photo of Norris and Kelley. “And we are now celebrating 20 years of marriage together. Gena … Thank you for being not only the best wife a man could ask for, but the greatest mom and best friend as well. I love you Gena and look forward to celebrating many more years together.”

How many kids do Gena O’Kelley and Chuck Norris have?

Chuck Norris had five children — two from his first marriage, another from a previous relationship, and twins with wife Gena O’Kelley.

According to People, Norris and his first wife, Diane Holechek, had their first son, Mike, in 1962. Three years later, they had a second son, Eric. Holechek and Norris divorced in 1988 after 30 years of marriage.

Ten years later, Norris married Gena O’Kelley. The couple welcomed twins, Dakota and Danilee, in 2001.

Later, in 2004, Norris discovered he had another child, Dina, from a previous relationship. Dina reached out to her famous father when she was 26.

“I was going through my mail at home, and I see this letter, and I open it up,” Norris previously told Entertainment Tonight. “It’s from Dina … and she says, ‘I’m your daughter from a past experience,’ and she said, ‘I found out you were my father when I was 16, but my mother said you were married and we shouldn’t interfere with your family.'”

So, where are Norris’ kids today? Mike, 63, went into the entertainment business. He directed Birdie & Bogey, AmeriGeddon, and The Crossroads of Hunter Wilde, and has three kids with his wife.

Dina, now 61, developed a close relationship with Norris throughout her adulthood. She’s also married with two sons.

Eric, 60, became a NASCAR racer and Hollywood stuntman. He has four children with his wife.

Dakota, 24, earned his fifth-degree black belt. And Danilee, 24, also had a close relationship with her father. She recently got engaged in 2026.

The star’s family posted a sweet tribute to him on Instagram after his death

On March 20, 2026, Chuck Norris’ family posted a sweet tribute to the late martial artist.

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” they captioned the Instagram post. “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”

“To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.”

“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”