Entertainment
‘Tarzan’ Star Passes Away
Ron Ely, renowned for his portrayal of Tarzan in the 1960s television series, passed away on September 29 at the home of his daughter near Santa Barbara, California. He was 86 years old. His daughter, Kirsten Ely, shared the news of his death on social media this Wednesday, marking the first public announcement of his passing. His death was first reported by The New York Times.
“The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad,” Kirsten wrote. “My father was someone that people called a hero. He was an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man and leader. He created a powerful wave of positive influence wherever he went. The impact he had on others is something that I have never witnessed in any other person – there was something truly magical about him. This is how the world knew him.”
“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. It was also a story of joy and love – something everyone close to him had the privilege of experiencing. Once you knew my father’s love, the world grew to be a brighter and more meaningful place.”
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Ely gained fame for his portrayal of Tarzan in the 1966–1968 NBC series “Tarzan” and played the lead in the 1975 film “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze.” Unlike the traditional depiction of Tarzan as a jungle man with limited language skills, this version featured a more articulate and educated Tarzan, one who had voluntarily returned to the jungle after being disillusioned with civilization.
Ron Ely – c. 1960s
The show ran for two seasons and focused on Tarzan’s adventures in Africa, tackling various challenges like poachers, environmental threats, and conflicts with local tribes. Ely’s physical portrayal was known for its rugged authenticity—he performed many of his own stunts, which often resulted in injuries. The series aimed for a more serious and action-driven narrative compared to earlier adaptations, with Tarzan’s connection to nature and his role as a protector of the jungle.
Ron Ely – Tarzan of the TV world (1966-68)
He was also known for hosting the Miss America pageant in 1980 and 1981. His career in entertainment saw him performing many of his own stunts in “Tarzan,” enduring numerous injuries. His other notable roles included appearances in “Fantasy Island,” “Wonder Woman,” and the revival of the series “Sea Hunt” in the late 1980s. Ely retired from acting in 2001 but made a brief return in the television film “Expecting Amish” in 2014. Alongside his acting career, he authored two mystery novels.
Ely’s personal life included a marriage to high school sweetheart Helen Janet Triplet and later to Valerie Lundeen, with whom he had three children. Tragically, in 2019, Lundeen was murdered by their son Cameron, who was later shot by police responding to the incident. Ely’s first marriage to Triplett ended in divorce. He later married Lundeen in 1984. He is survived by his daughters, Kirsten and Kaitland Sweet, and two grandchildren.
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