‘Tarzan’ Star Ron Ely Dead at 86

One of the most iconic characters of the 1960s has sadly passed away.

Ron Ely, most known for having played “Tarzan,” has died.

He was 86 years old.

He’s Gone

Ely’s death was announced on social media by his daughter, Kristen.

She posted, “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad.

“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.”

Needless to say, family, friends, and fans have shown an outpouring of affection for this man once word of his death traveled.

Ely started his acting career in 1958 with a small role in “South Pacific.” From there, his career took off rather quickly, landing numerous TV roles and an occasional movie role.

In 1961, he landed his first recurring role on a TV show, “Aquanauts,” appearing in 18 episodes.

From there, he landed another TV role, two movie roles, and then his big break, the lead in “Tarzan.”

Ely played in 57 episodes of the show and is by far the most recognizable Tarzan to have played the character.

After he left Tarzan, a steady flow of TV and movie roles was available to the popular star, which eventually led to another recurring role in “Sea Hunt,” where he appeared in 22 episodes.

For all intents and purposes, he left the acting industry in 1996, but he did have two more roles, appearing in a TV series in 2001 and his last credit, Elder Miller, in the TV movie “Expecting Amish.”

In addition to the shows mentioned above, some of the more popular shows Ely appeared in during his career were “Father Knows Best,” “Ironside,” and “Wonder Woman.”

Rest in peace, Ron, and thanks for the memories.