Ron Ely, a beloved TV icon who famously swung through the jungle as Tarzan has died, leaving fans of the legendary adventure series in mourning.
Ron Ely, the actor who embodied the wild and adventurous spirit of “Tarzan” in the 1960s TV series, has passed away at 86.
Ron Ely attends the Paley Center for Media and the Warner archive collection ‘Retro TV Action-Adventure-Thon’ on September 22, 2012, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
According to a statement from his daughter, Ely died peacefully at home on September 29, with his family by his side.
Ron Ely, US actor, posing bare chested with a chimpanzee sitting on his shoulders in a publicity portrait issued for the US television series, ‘Tarzan’, circa 1966. | Source: Getty Images
In a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram, his daughter Kirsten expressed her deep sorrow, “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad.”
Ron Ely wearing a loincloth and standing on the branch of a tree in publicity still issued for the US television series, ‘Tarzan’, circa 1966. | Source: Getty Images
Alongside cherished photos that captured their special moments together, Kirsten honored her father, referring to him as “someone that people called a hero.” She described him as a “mentor, family man, and leader,” emphasizing the profound impact he had on those around him.
Kirsten reflected on her father’s remarkable ability to create a “powerful wave of positive influence” wherever he went, noting that his impact was something she had never witnessed in any other person.
“My father’s life story was one of relentless perseverance, unending dedication to his family and friends, courage to do what was right, and willing sacrifice to facilitate the dreams of those he loved,” she wrote.
Ron Ely attends the Chiller Theatre Expo on October 23, 2015, in Parsippany, New Jersey. | Source: Getty Images
As she navigates her loss, Kirsten finds solace in the thought that her dad is now reunited with her mother, Valerie, and brother, Cameron. “I am doing my best to walk this path of loss with the strength and grace that I know he would want for me,” she stated.
Ron began his professional acting career in the late 1950s, but it was in 1966 that he truly soared to fame, taking on the role of the titular character in the “Tarzan” TV series. For 57 episodes from 1966 to 1968, he captivated audiences with his portrayal of the legendary jungle hero.
Ron Ely on the set of “Tarzan” season one on September 08, 1966. | Source: Getty Images
The actor’s talent extended beyond “Tarzan,” as he showcased his acting skills in a variety of other projects, including “Wonder Woman,” the 1975 action-adventure movie, “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze,” “L.A. Law,” “The Love Boat,” and “The Friend Who Walked the West.”
His dedication to the “Tarzan” legacy continued throughout his career with several related projects. In his later years, Ron also ventured into writing, publishing a pair of novels that further highlighted his creative abilities.
Ron Ely attends retro TV action-adventure-thon on September 22, 2012, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Ron’s life took a tragic turn in 2019 when his son, Cameron, reportedly suffering from the early stages of CTE, fatally stabbed his mother, Valerie, Ron’s wife. The incident escalated when Cameron, attempting to evade arrest, was shot multiple times by Santa Barbara County sheriff’s deputies after trying to shift blame onto Ron.
Following the tragic incident, Ron pursued legal action the next year, filing a federal wrongful death lawsuit against the sheriff’s department. The court documents revealed claims that Cameron had been attempting to surrender when officers opened fire, discharging over 20 rounds.
Ron Ely with his wife Valerie and their children attend Second Annual Toys for Tots Benefit on December 19, 1992, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The legal documents also alleged that the five officers at the scene neglected to provide timely medical aid to Valerie, who was found dead with multiple stab wounds.
According to a police report, responding officers discovered Valerie, 62, inside their home and then sought out Cameron after Ron, who was present during the incident, identified him as the prime suspect.
Ron Ely attends The Hollywood Show on April 20, 2013, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Officers searched the residence and its surroundings and located Cameron outside. He informed the police that he had a gun and advanced toward the deputies while making motions as if drawing a weapon. In response, four deputies discharged a total of 24 rounds, fatally wounding Cameron.
Once it was safe to approach, deputies used a ballistic shield to reach him, only to find he had no weapon. Fortunately, none of the deputies were injured in the confrontation, and Ron, though not physically harmed, was taken to the hospital for precautionary measures.
Ron Ely participates in The 2011 Fall Hollywood Show on Saturday October 9, 2011, in Burbank, California. | Source: Getty Images
In the years that followed this tragic event, Ron Ely continued to navigate the challenges brought on by the loss of his family.
The actor has passed away at 86 and is survived by his daughters, Kirsten and Kaitland. His portrayal of the iconic jungle hero left an indelible mark on television, securing his place as a household name throughout his career.