Ron Ely, the Hollywood actor best known for his role in the 1960s television series ‘Tarzan,’ passed away at the age of 86. His daughter, Kirsten, confirmed his death to tmz.com, stating that he died peacefully at home on September 29, surrounded by family.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram, Kirsten expressed her sorrow, saying, “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad.” She described him as a hero, actor, writer, coach, mentor, and leader who spread positive influence wherever he went.
Kirsten emphasized the profound impact her father had on others, noting his unique magic and how he created an incredible life. She shared her admiration for him, referring to him as strong, brilliant, funny, stoic, and sensitive, and her deep sense of loss.
Her tribute highlighted her father’s unwavering perseverance, dedication to family and friends, moral courage, and joy, which those close to him were fortunate to experience. Kirsten explained that she is trying to navigate her grief with the strength she believes he would have wanted for her, cherishing the memories and pieces of him she carries in her heart.
Ely experienced a notable career, appearing in films like “South Pacific,” “The Fiend Who Walked the West,” and “The Remarkable Mr. Pennypacker.” He rose to fame as Tarzan in the NBC series starting in 1966, performing most of his own stunts and enduring injuries, including two broken shoulders and lion bites.
He also starred in “The Aquanauts” from 1960-61 and the Western film “The Night of the Grizzly” in 1966. Although he retired from acting in 2001, he made his last television appearance in 2014 in “Expecting Amish.” Ely was also a novelist, having published two mystery books featuring private detective Jake Sands in the mid-1990s.