‘Tarzan’ Star Ron Ely Dies At 86

Ron Ely, the actor best known for portraying the jungle hero in the original “Tarzan” TV series, has passed away at the age of 86. His daughter, Kirsten Ely, shared the news on social media on Wednesday, announcing his death and expressing her deep sorrow. According to reports, the former actor died on September 29 at one of his daughter’s homes near Santa Barbara, California.

Kirsten paid a heartfelt tribute to her father in an emotional Instagram post. “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad,” she wrote. Reflecting on her father’s legacy, she described him as more than just an actor, calling him a hero, mentor, coach, and leader. “He created a powerful wave of positive influence wherever he went,” Kirsten added. “The impact he had on others is something that I have never witnessed in any other person – there was something truly magical about him.”

Ely, born in northern Texas, rose to fame in the 1960s with his portrayal of Tarzan in the NBC series that aired from 1966 to 1968. He also had notable roles in shows like “The Aquanauts” and films such as “The Night of the Grizzly” and “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze” (1975). Beyond his acting career, Ely hosted the Miss America pageants in 1980 and 1981, stepping in for longtime host Bert Parks, and also hosted the game show “Face the Music.”

In her tribute, Kirsten shared personal memories of her father, expressing her immense pride in being his daughter. “To me, he hung the moon,” she said. Kirsten also found solace in knowing that her father is now reunited with her mother and brother, though she admitted that their absence leaves a profound void. “My greatest comfort is knowing that my dad is with my momma and my brother. It is also my greatest sadness because I miss them all so much that it’s etched into my soul.”

Ron Ely’s career spanned multiple decades, but to his daughter and those closest to him, his legacy was defined by the kindness, wisdom, and love he shared with everyone around him.