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Today one of the toughest, most feared and bearded stars turns the big 7-0.
I'm talking about Chuck Norris -- and the man seems ageless, so it's hard to believe he's a septuagenarian. We've heard so many "Chuck Norris Facts" over the years that it's easy to confuse them with Norris' true biography. ("Chuck Norris does not sleep! He waits." "Chuck Norris' tears cure cancer. Too bad he has never cried.")
Here are a few real facts about the actor/martial arts expert in honor of his big day. I hope he has planned a celebratory afternoon of cake, presents and roundhouse kicks.
1. Chuck Norris' real name? That would be Carlos Ray Norris. He was born in Ryan, Okla.
2. Chuck got his nickname after he joined the Air Force and was sent to South Korea. There, he began training in the martial arts.
3. Norris founded his own school of martial art called Chun Kuk Do ("The Universal Way"). Primarily known for its kicking techniques, it mixes elements from various styles.
4. Norris was Steve McQueen's karate instructor. McQueen encouraged him to go into acting.
5. Norris' first acting gig was in a 1969 James Bond spoof starring Dean Martin called The Wrecking Crew. It also featured actress Sharon Tate in one of her last roles before she was murdered.