Los Alamos, Calif. — Ron Ely, famed for his portrayal of Tarzan in the iconic 1960s NBC TV series, died at his California home on September 29, 2024. He was 86. His death was confirmed by his daughter, Kirsten Casale Ely, who remembered her father as a renaissance man—actor, author, coach, and a family-centered mentor whose impact was felt profoundly by all who knew him.
Ron Ely brought a unique interpretation to the role of Tarzan from 1966 to 1968, portraying the jungle hero as an articulate bachelor disillusioned with civilization, choosing instead the wilds of the African jungle he considered home. Unlike prior versions of the character, Ely’s Tarzan was noted for his eloquent speech over the typical monosyllabic grunts, a creative direction that resonated with audiences.
Born in Texas, Ely was known for performing his own stunts throughout the challenging 57-episode tenure of the “Tarzan” series. Engaging directly with wild animals and executing demanding physical feats ultimately took a toll on him, leaving him both physically and mentally drained by the series’ conclusion.
Post-Tarzan, Ely continued to grace the screen, starring in the 1975 film “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze” and later bringing star appeal as the host of the Miss America pageant in 1980 and 1981. Despite his continued success in the industry, Ely retired from acting in 2001, choosing to dedicate his time to his family. He made a brief return to acting in the TV film “Expecting Amish” in 2014.
In October 2019, Ely’s tranquility was shattered by a tragic incident at his home. His wife, Valerie Lundeen Ely, was fatally stabbed by their 30-year-old son Cameron, who was subsequently shot and killed by responding officers. The profound impact of this event was compounded as Ely was recovering from a stroke he suffered around the same time. Ely and his remaining daughters later filed, but lost, a wrongful death lawsuit against the county’s deputies, with a jury ruling the officers acted in self-defense.
Ely’s contribution to film and television is remembered fondly by fans across generations. Despite the adversities faced in his later years, His legacy in the entertainment industry endures, marked by his dynamic roles and deep personal resilience. He leaves behind two daughters, Kirsten and Kaitland, who continue to honor his life and work.
As the news of his passing spreads, colleagues and film enthusiasts express their condolences and share memories of Ely’s work and its impact on the entertainment landscape. His portrayal of Tarzan remains particularly significant, noted for challenging and changing the public perception of a beloved literary character. His life, marked by both remarkable achievements and profound tragedy, leaves a lasting imprint on both his community and the broader realm of pop culture.