Hollywood mourns the loss of a true icon as Ron Ely, best known for his role as Tarzan, has passed away at the age of 86. Ely, whose performances inspired generations, leaves behind a rich legacy not only as an actor but as a father, mentor, and a beacon of hope for many. His daughter confirmed his passing, paying tribute to a man who lived life with unmatched grace and strength.
A Hero On and Off the Screen
“The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad,” shared Kirsten, Ely’s daughter, in a heartfelt statement. “My father was someone that people called a hero. He was an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man and leader. He created a powerful wave of positive influence wherever he went. The impact he had on others is something that I have never witnessed in any other person – there was something truly magical about him. This is how the world knew him.”
Kirsten added, “I knew him as my dad – and what a heaven sent honor that has been. To me, he hung the moon.”
A Life of Dedication and Love
Kirsten went on to describe her father’s incredible journey, highlighting his devotion to family and friends. “My father’s life story was one of relentless perseverance, unending dedication to his family and friends, courage to do what was right, and willing sacrifice to facilitate the dreams of those he loved,” she wrote. “It was also a story of joy and love – something everyone close to him had the privilege of experiencing. Once you knew my father’s love, the world grew to be a brighter and more meaningful place.”
Kirsten acknowledged the difficulty of her loss but remains committed to carrying her father’s legacy. “I am doing my best to walk this path of loss with the strength and grace that I know he would want for me,” she said. “I am picking up the pieces of my heart that feel like pieces of him – and cementing those firmly in place before I pick up the rest of the broken bits. It makes me feel like part of him is still here – and I need that – and the world needs that.”
A Family’s Bond Through Grief
The loss of her father has also brought back the memories of her mother and brother, whom Ely joins in passing. “My greatest comfort is knowing that my dad is with my momma and my brother,” Kirsten shared. “It is also my greatest sadness because I miss them all so much that it’s etched into my soul. I will proudly carry all of my favorite pieces of them – lovingly cemented into my heart – until we all meet again.”
The Rise of a Hollywood Legend
Ron Ely first made a mark in Hollywood in the 1960s when he played the lead role in NBC’s “Tarzan.” The series, which ran from 1966 to 1968, solidified his position as one of the era’s most iconic action heroes. His portrayal of the legendary jungle man captivated audiences worldwide and earned him a devoted fan base.
After his iconic stint as Tarzan, Ely continued to grace screens with roles in notable projects. He starred in Universal’s “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze” in 1975 and later appeared as a guest on hit TV shows like “Wonder Woman,” “The Love Boat,” “Fantasy Island,” and “Superboy.”
Ron Ely’s career, while full of incredible roles, was defined just as much by the person he was off-screen—a mentor, family man, and an embodiment of strength and compassion. He may have been Tarzan to millions of viewers, but to those who knew him personally, he was an irreplaceable hero whose influence will never fade.
