Ron Ely, Iconic 'Tarzan,' Dead At 86

Chartdata

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Oct 25, 2024

36 visitor like this post

Share

Ron Ely, the Iconic 'Tarzan,' Swings into the Sunset at 86

Remember those classic Tarzan films from the 70s? You know, the ones where a handsome, muscular man with a wild mane of hair swung through the jungle, battling bad guys and rescuing damsels in distress? That was Ron Ely, the man who embodied Tarzan for a generation. Sadly, the actor who brought the legendary jungle lord to life has passed away at the age of 86.

Ely's career spanned decades, but it was his role as Tarzan that truly catapulted him into the spotlight. From 1966 to 1968, he starred in the popular TV series "Tarzan," captivating audiences with his athleticism, charisma, and, let's be honest, those incredible pecs. Even though the series ran for only three seasons, it solidified his place as a cultural icon and a symbol of classic Hollywood masculinity.

But Ely's acting talents weren't limited to swinging through the jungle. He also starred in other films like "The Night the City Died," "The Mating Game," and "Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze." He even dabbled in TV shows like "Fantasy Island" and "The Love Boat." And who could forget his memorable role as the villainous "Baron" in the 1980s film "The Last American Virgin?"

Beyond his acting career, Ely was a devoted family man. He was married to his wife, Valerie Lundeen, for over 40 years. They had three sons together. Unfortunately, in 2019, tragedy struck the Ely family when their youngest son tragically killed his mother before being fatally shot by police.

While his final years were overshadowed by this heartbreaking loss, Ely's legacy as the iconic "Tarzan" remains strong. He will be remembered for his physical prowess, his charming smile, and his ability to embody the spirit of adventure that captivated audiences worldwide. His Tarzan remains a timeless character, and Ely's performance in the role will continue to inspire generations to come.

Ron Ely may be gone, but his legacy as the king of the jungle lives on. He'll always be remembered as the guy who made Tarzan a household name and reminded us all of the primal power and beauty of nature. Rest in peace, Mr. Ely. You'll be missed.