Ron Ely, Tarzan and Doc Savage Star, Dead at 81
It's a sad day for fans of classic adventure films. Ron Ely, the actor who brought the iconic Tarzan and Doc Savage to life on the silver screen, has passed away at the age of 81.
Ely's life was full of adventure, just like the characters he played. Born in 1938, he started his acting career in the 1960s, but it was his role as Tarzan in the 1966 film Tarzan and the Great River that truly launched him to fame.
He went on to play Doc Savage, another beloved adventure hero, in the 1975 film Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze. Both roles cemented his place in the hearts of fans and solidified his image as a true action hero.
Beyond those iconic roles, Ely appeared in numerous other TV shows and movies, including The Six Million Dollar Man and The Love Boat. He also enjoyed a successful career as a college professor, teaching literature and acting at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Sadly, Ely's life took a tragic turn in 2019 when his son tragically killed his wife. This heartbreaking incident overshadowed the legacy of the beloved actor, but for many fans, his roles as Tarzan and Doc Savage will forever be etched in their memories.
Ely's death is a reminder that even the most legendary figures are ultimately mortal. He will be missed by his fans, friends, and family. His legacy, however, will live on through the adventure films he starred in, inspiring generations of viewers with his strength, charisma, and undeniable screen presence.