Ron Ely, a beloved TV icon who famously swung through the jungle as Tarzan has passed away, leaving fans of the legendary adventure series in mourning.
Ron Ely, the actor who embodied the wild and adventurous spirit of “Tarzan” in the 1960s TV series, has passed away at 86. According to a statement from his daughter, Ely died peacefully at home on September 29, with his family by his side.
Ron Ely attends the Paley Center for Media and the Warner archive collection ‘Retro TV Action-Adventure-Thon’ on September 22, 2012, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
In a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram, his daughter Kirsten expressed her deep sorrow: “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad.”
Ron Ely, US actor, posing bare chested with a chimpanzee sitting on his shoulders in a publicity portrait issued for the US television series, ‘Tarzan’, circa 1966. | Source: Getty Images
Alongside cherished photos that captured their special moments together, Kirsten honored her father, referring to him as “someone that people called a hero.” She described him as a “mentor, family man, and leader,” emphasizing the profound impact he had on those around him.
Ron Ely wearing a loincloth and standing on the branch of a tree in publicity still issued for the US television series, ‘Tarzan’, circa 1966. | Source: Getty Images
Kirsten reflected on her father’s remarkable ability to create a “powerful wave of positive influence” wherever he went, noting that his impact was something she had never witnessed in any other person.
“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.
As she navigates her loss, Kirsten finds solace in the thought that her dad is now reunited with her mother, Valerie, and brother, Cameron. “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 stated.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
