Ron Ely, known for his iconic portrayal of Tarzan in the NBC television series from 1966 to 1968, has passed away at the age of 86. The Texan actor, who also starred in “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze” and hosted the Miss America pageant, left behind a legacy that resonated with many.
His daughter, Kirsten, shared the news of his death in a heartfelt statement to Fox News Digital. Describing her father as one of the greatest men the world has ever known, she expressed her deep loss and admiration for him. She highlighted his multifaceted talents as an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man, and leader, noting the profound positive impact he had on everyone he encountered.
Ron Ely, born Ronald Pierce Ely in Hereford, Texas in 1938, initially began his acting career with a minor role in the 1958 film adaptation of “South Pacific.” However, it was his role as Tarzan that catapulted him to fame. Portraying Tarzan as a character who rejects modern civilization to embrace his jungle upbringing in Africa, Ely’s performance was marked by his dedication to doing his own stunts, despite suffering numerous injuries in the process.
In addition to his Tarzan role, Ely starred in the pulp action film “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze” in 1975, leveraging his striking 6ft 4in stature and rugged good looks. He later ventured into hosting, fronting the game show “Face the Music” and presenting the Miss America Pageants in 1980 and 1981.
Ely’s personal life was also marked by tragedy, most notably the loss of his wife, Valerie Lundeen, in a tragic incident in 2019. Lundeen was found stabbed to death, and their son, Cameron, was shot and killed by police when they responded to the scene. Ely subsequently filed a lawsuit against the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department, alleging negligence in handling the situation.
In his passing, Ron Ely leaves behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry, remembered not only for his on-screen contributions but also for the profound impact he had on those around him.
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Ron Ely’s journey from portraying Tarzan to hosting the Miss America pageant showcases his versatility as an actor and presenter. His dedication to his craft, willingness to undertake risky stunts, and personal tragedies off-screen paint a picture of a complex and resilient individual. Ely’s legacy serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that influential figures can have on both the entertainment industry and the lives of those they touch.