Ron Ely, well remembered for his role in the 1960s television series Tarzan, has died at the age of 86. Kirsten, Ely’s daughter, verified his death, which occurred on September 29 at her house near Santa Barbara in California. Kirsten paid her father a moving tribute on Instagram, calling him as “a hero” and “a heaven-sent honor.”
Ely starred in Tarzan during its 57-episode run on NBC from 1966 to 1968, portraying a modernized version of the jungle hero originally created by Edgar Rice Burroughs. The NBC series retained Tarzan’s famous chimpanzee companion, Cheetah, but omitted his traditional love interest, Jane. Ely’s career extended beyond Tarzan, with notable roles in films like Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze(1975) and guest appearances on popular shows such as Wonder Woman and Fantasy Island.
He took a break from acting in the 1990s to raise his three children before returning short in 2014 with the television film Expecting Amish. Ely explained to The Fresno Bee that he left performing to focus on raising his family. It felt so fantastic making the film that I wish I hadn’t left.”
Ely’s later years were marked by tragedy when his wife, Valerie Lundeen Ely, was murd3red in 2019. Police fatally shot Ely’s son, Cameron, who they alleged was responsible for his mother’s death. Ely later filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department, claiming the officers’ actions were unjustified. A federal jury ultimately ruled in favor of the deputies in 2022.
Kirsten paid tribute to her father’s legacy, stating that he “created a powerful wave of positive influence” and that his love made “the world a brighter place.” She went on to say that the fact that her father has been reunited with her mother and brother brings her the most comfort.
