While the show emphasized martial arts, the real Rangers are a elite investigative unit.

Walker, Texas Ranger succeeded by blending classic Western tropes with modern martial arts action. Set in Dallas, Texas, the show followed Cordell Walker, a veteran Ranger who preferred hand-to-hand combat over firearms, frequently utilizing spinning backkicks to neutralize criminals. Alongside his partner James "Jimmy" Trivette (Clarence Gilyard Jr.), Assistant District Attorney Alex Cahill (Sheree J. Wilson), and retired Ranger CD Parker (Noble Willingham), Walker tackled everything from local bank robberies to international terrorist plots.