REST IN PEACE 🙏 Our prayers go out to “Tarzan” Star Ron Ely’s family during this time.


Ron Ely, the beloved actor who famously portrayed the jungle hero “Tarzan” in the 1960s television series, has passed away at the age of 86. Ely, who captured the hearts of audiences with his adventurous spirit and charm, died peacefully at home on September 29, surrounded by his family, according to a statement from his daughter.

Ely first gained widespread fame in 1966 when he took on the role of Tarzan in the television series that aired for 57 episodes between 1966 and 1968. His portrayal of the iconic character, known for swinging through the jungle and interacting with wild animals, cemented his status as a TV icon. Beyond Tarzan, Ely demonstrated his versatility as an actor, appearing in various other projects such as Wonder Woman, Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze, L.A. Law, The Love Boat, and The Friend Who Walked the West.

In a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram, Ely’s daughter, Kirsten, expressed her profound sorrow. “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known—and I have lost my dad,” she wrote. Along with cherished photos of their time together, Kirsten reflected on her father’s lasting impact on those around him, describing him as a “hero, mentor, family man, and leader.” She emphasized his ability to spread positivity and influence people wherever he went, noting that she had never seen anything quite like it in anyone else.

Kirsten also spoke about her father’s unwavering dedication to his family and friends, praising his perseverance and courage. “My father’s life story was one of relentless perseverance, unending dedication to his family and friends, and the courage to do what was right,” she wrote. Despite the pain of his passing, she found solace in the belief that her father was now reunited with her mother, Valerie, and brother, Cameron, who both passed away in a tragic event in 2019.

Ely’s life took a heartbreaking turn when his son, Cameron, fatally stabbed his wife, Valerie, reportedly due to the early stages of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). The incident escalated, and Cameron was shot by sheriff’s deputies while trying to evade arrest. Following this devastating loss, Ely pursued legal action, filing a wrongful death lawsuit against the sheriff’s department, claiming that Cameron was attempting to surrender when he was shot.

Despite these challenges, Ely’s legacy as an actor and family man remained intact. In addition to his television career, Ely ventured into writing, publishing two novels that further showcased his creative talents. His portrayal of Tarzan left an indelible mark on pop culture, ensuring his place as a household name for generations.

Ron Ely is survived by his daughters, Kirsten and Kaitland. His contributions to television, along with his personal resilience in the face of tragedy, will be remembered by fans and loved ones alike. Ely’s passing marks the end of an era, but his impact will continue to resonate for years to come.


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