Norris' Former Co-Star Criticizes Emmys Omission from Tribute
Judson Mills, who appeared alongside Chuck Norris in the final seasons of 'Walker, Texas Ranger,' publicly expressed disappointment that Norris was left out of the Emmys' In Memoriam segment. Norris, a television icon known for the long-running CBS series, died in March at age 86. Mills called the snub a 'tragic' and 'terrible mistake' that hurt him personally.
Judson Mills, who played Francis Gage opposite Chuck Norris during the final two seasons of "Walker, Texas Ranger," expressed his frustration over the Emmy telecast's omission of his former colleague. The CBS procedural ran for nine seasons and 203 episodes from 1993 to 2001, with Norris appearing in every installment before returning for the 2005 television movie "Walker, Texas Ranger: Trial by Fire."
Norris died in March at age 86, and Mills shared his disappointment in an interview with TMZ, describing the decision as both "terrible" and "tragic." He noted that the snub affected him personally, as he had worked closely with Norris in both the series' final episodes and the follow-up film.
The omission of a beloved television icon from the Emmys' In Memoriam segment could resonate with longtime viewers and industry professionals who view such tributes as a measure of cultural recognition. For fans of "Walker, Texas Ranger," the snub may feel like a dismissal of the show's legacy, potentially sparking broader conversations about how award ceremonies select honorees. Such moments could also prompt the Television Academy to review its vetting process, though the impact may remain largely symbolic.