(DailyVantage.com) – Ron Ely, the actor best known for his role as Tarzan in the 1966-1968 television series, passed away on September 29, 2023, at the age of 86. The tall, athletic Ely became a household name for his portrayal of Tarzan, a role he took on after the original cast choice, former NFL player Mike Henry, sustained an injury on set. Despite concerns about being typecast, Ely took on the physically demanding role, performing his own stunts throughout the series. These stunts often left him injured, with various muscle tears and broken bones, eventually leading him to feel a sense of relief when the series ended after two seasons.
Following Tarzan, Ely continued his acting career, starring in the 1975 film Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze, based on the classic pulp character, although he later felt the film was compromised by the studio’s decisions. In the early 1980s, he also served as host for The Miss America Pageant and Face the Music, a musical game show. Ely’s television appearances included guest spots on Wonder Woman in 1978 and portraying Superman in the series Superboy in 1991, expanding his influence in TV beyond the jungle hero role.
Born on June 21, 1938, in Hereford, Texas, Ely began his career in the late 1950s, quickly transitioning from film to television with significant roles that showcased his physicality and screen presence. His impact on pop culture was also deeply personal; Ely’s daughter, Kirsten, described him as a hero and a man who left a “powerful wave of positive influence” on those around him.
However, his family life endured tragedy in 2019 when his son, Cameron Ely, who was reportedly suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), fatally stabbed Ely’s wife, Valerie Lundeen. Cameron was later killed by police during the incident.
Ron Ely’s legacy as a groundbreaking television figure endures, with a career that spanned decades and brought iconic characters to life. He is survived by his daughters Kirsten and Kaitland, who remember him not only as an actor but also as a family man and mentor who profoundly impacted those around him.
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