Ron Ely, the beloved actor best known for his role as Tarzan in the 1960s television series, has passed away at the age of 86.
His daughter, Kirsten Casale Ely, announced the news on Instagram, sharing her grief with the world: “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad.”
Ely portrayed the iconic character of Tarzan on NBC from 1966 to 1968, capturing the hearts of viewers with his adventurous spirit and charisma.
Throughout his time on the show, he faced numerous challenges, including serious injuries from performing his own stunts and encounters with wild animals.
After retiring from acting in 2001, Ely shifted his focus to writing, publishing two mystery novels.
He made a brief return to the screen in 2014, appearing in the television film Expecting Amish as an Amish elder.
Ely’s versatile career also included guest appearances on popular shows like The Love Boat and Wonder Woman, where he shared the screen with the talented Lynda Carter.
Born in Texas in 1938, Ely’s personal life saw him marry his high school sweetheart in 1959, though the marriage lasted just two years.
In the early 1980s, he hosted the Miss America pageant, where he met his second wife, Valerie. The couple had three children and enjoyed a family-oriented life.
Ely passed away at his home in Los Alamos, California, on September 29. His daughter’s heartfelt tribute emphasized his multifaceted legacy: “My father was someone that people called a hero.
He was an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man, and leader.” She added, “To me, he hung the moon,” reflecting the deep love and admiration she held for her father.
