Ron Ely

2024 - 10 - 24

Farewell to the Jungle Legend: Ron Ely Takes His Final Swing

Cultural Icons - Pop Culture - Ron Ely - Tarzan TV Series - Television History

Ron Ely, the man who swung into our hearts as TV's iconic Tarzan, has passed away at 86. Here's a look back at his legendary journey through the jungle and beyond!

Ron Ely, the legendary actor famous for embodying the king of the jungle in the original NBC series 'Tarzan,' has passed away at the remarkable age of 86. Ely’s daughter confirmed the heartbreaking news, reminding us all of the impact her father had on both his family and countless fans around the world. He portrayed the iconic character from 1966 to 1968, captivating audiences with his rugged charm and athletic prowess while swinging through the trees of the fictional jungle of Africa.

Ely wasn't just a pretty face with great muscle tone; he brought a unique charm to the role that made him unforgettable. While his Tarzan series was undoubtedly his crowning glory, Ely's career spanned several decades, including stints as a popular guest star in numerous TV series. His transition from the jungle to various inches of Hollywood is a tale of endurance and talent wrapped around sheer charisma. Sadly, life threw him a curveball in 2019 when tragedy struck his family, marking a troubling chapter in the life of the once-revered star.

Despite the recent sorrow, Ron Ely's legacy is nothing short of legendary. He didn’t just play Tarzan; he became a symbol of the adventurous spirit that defined the era. His charming antics not only entertained but also inspired an entire generation to embrace the outdoors and take on adventures with a spirit akin to the man raised by apes. More than a fictional character, Ely became an idol who taught us the beauty of the wild and the importance of family.

As we bid farewell to this gentle giant of the screen, a couple of fun facts come to mind: Ely was actually an accomplished athlete, having competed in tennis at a high level before fully committing to acting! Additionally, did you know that the original Tarzan stories were written by Edgar Rice Burroughs, and Ely’s version brought modern twists that amazed viewers? Ron Ely will forever remain in the hearts of his fans—a true testament to the timeless character he made his own.

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Image courtesy of "NEWS.com.au"

'One of the greatest men': Iconic TV actor dead (NEWS.com.au)

Ron Ely, the actor who played Tarzan in the iconic TV series, has died aged 86, with his daughter confirming the sad news in a heartbreaking statement.

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Image courtesy of "Forbes"

Ron Ely, TV's 'Tarzan,' Dies At 86 (Forbes)

Ron Ely, who is remembered for starring in the action/adventure Tarzan on NBC from 1966-68, has died at the age of 86.

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Image courtesy of "USA TODAY"

'One of the greatest men': 'Tarzan' star Ron Ely dies at 86: Reports (USA TODAY)

Ron Ely, known for starring in the original "Tarzan" series, has died, his daughter announced on social media. He was 86.

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Image courtesy of "Hollywood Reporter"

Ron Ely, Star of the First Tarzan Series for Television, Dies at 86 (Hollywood Reporter)

Ron Ely, the Texas native who portrayed the Lord of the Jungle on the first Tarzan series for television, has died. He was 86.

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Image courtesy of "ABC News"

Ron Ely, TV's 'Tarzan' in the 1960s, dies at 86 (ABC News)

The tall, musclebound actor who played the title character in the 1960s NBC series “Tarzan,” Ron Ely's daughter says he died Sept. 29 in Los Alamos, ...

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Image courtesy of "Deadline"

Ron Ely Dies: Star Of TV's 'Tarzan' Was 86 (Deadline)

Ron Ely, best known for his starring as Tarzan in the 1960s NBC TV series, died on September 29, 2024 at age 86.

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Image courtesy of "The New York Times"

Ron Ely, Who Played an Updated Tarzan in the 1960s, Dies at 86 (The New York Times)

He later built a career as a reliable TV guest star. His life turned tragic in 2019 when his son killed Mr. Ely's wife and was then shot to death by the ...

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Image courtesy of "BBC News"

Tarzan star Ron Ely dies aged 86 (BBC News)

The actor also appeared in hit 1980s television shows Wonder Woman and The Love Boat.

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Image courtesy of "WPIX 11 New York"

Ron Ely, TV's 'Tarzan' in the 1960s, dies at 86 (WPIX 11 New York)

Ron Ely, the tall, musclebound actor who played the title character in the 1960s NBC series “Tarzan,” has died at age 86.

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Image courtesy of "Sky News"

Tarzan and Doc Savage actor Ron Ely has died (Sky News)

The tall and muscular actor helped form the image of Tarzan further immortalised by Disney and also played the title character in the 1975 action film Doc ...

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Image courtesy of "CNN"

Ron Ely, TV's 'Tarzan' in the 1960s, dies at 86 (CNN)

Ron Ely, the tall, musclebound actor who played the title character in the 1960s NBC series “Tarzan,” has died at age 86.

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Image courtesy of "Los Angeles Times"

Ron Ely, star of 1960s TV series 'Tarzan,' dead at 86 (Los Angeles Times)

Ron Ely, the tall, musclebound actor who played the title character in the 1960s NBC TV series “Tarzan,” has died, his daughter says. He was 86.

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Image courtesy of "ABC7 Los Angeles"

Ron Ely, TV's 'Tarzan' in the 1960s, dies at 86 (ABC7 Los Angeles)

Ron Ely, the tall, musclebound actor who played the title character in the 1960s NBC series "Tarzan," has died at age 86.

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Image courtesy of "The Spokesman-Review"

Ron Ely, star of original 'Tarzan' TV show, dies at 86 (The Spokesman-Review)

Ron Ely, the star of the original “Tarzan” TV series, has died at age 86. The actor died on Sept. 29 at the Santa Barbara, California, home of his daughter ...

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Image courtesy of "WDBJ7"

Ron Ely, TV's 'Tarzan' in the 1960s, dies at 86 (WDBJ7)

Ely's daughter, ...

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