What Happened to Ron Ely? ‘Tarzan’ Actor Passes Away

Fans are devastated after learning the tragic news of Ron Ely’s death. He was a beloved actor, famously known for his iconic portrayal of Tarzan in the 1966 NBC series. Aside from acting, he was also a noted novelist, having written mystery novels. But what exactly happened to Ron Ely?

Here’s a detailed article on what happened to the Tarzan actor.

Ron Ely passes away at 86, claims report

Ely passed away at age 86 on September 29, 2024.

The heartbreaking news came to light after his daughter Kristen took to social media to pay homage to the Tarzan actor. It was revealed that he died in one of his daughter’s houses near Santa Barbara, California, as per The New York Times. As of now, the real cause of his demise has not yet been revealed.

Kristen’s heartfelt words honoring her father have moved fans worldwide. In her tribute, Kristen called her father the “greatest” man in the world. Expressing her appreciation of Ely, her words read, “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.”

She further adds “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. I knew him as my dad – and what a heaven sent honor that has been. To me, he hung the moon.”

In the late 1950s, Ely began his acting career, securing minor roles in several movies and series including South Pacific and The Fiend Who Walked the West. However, in 1966, the lead role of Tarzan in the NBC series became a complete game-changer for his career. His portrayal became known worldwide and garnered immense attention for straight two seasons. Aside from this iconic role, he is also known for his part in  Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze, Sea hunt, and The Aquanauts.

Despite his iconic roles, Ely bid farewell to acting in 2001 to take care of his family. His final on-screen appearance was in Expecting Amish in 2014. Moreover, he also penned two mystery novels, named Jake Sands: Night Shadows (1994) and East Beach (1995).