Ron Ely was born on June 21, 1938, in Hereford, Texas. Raised in a modest household, he developed an early interest in acting and storytelling. He attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he honed his skills and set the foundation for his future career in the entertainment industry.
Breakthrough as Tarzan
Ely’s big break came in 1966 when he was cast in the title role of Tarzan, a television series based on the iconic character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs. Unlike many of his predecessors who played Tarzan, Ely performed most of his own stunts, bringing a sense of authenticity and physicality to the role.
His portrayal was marked by a more articulate and civilized version of the jungle hero, which resonated with audiences and made him a household name during the show’s run from 1966 to 1968.
Acting Career Beyond Tarzan
After the success of Tarzan, Ron Ely continued to work in both television and film. He appeared in several TV series, such as The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and Wonder Woman, cementing his place as a familiar face on the small screen.
In 1975, he played the lead role in Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze, based on the pulp fiction hero. Although the film did not achieve widespread success, Ely’s performance was appreciated by fans of the genre.
Hosting Career and Later Work
In the 1980s, Ely transitioned into hosting, where he found further success. He became the host of the popular television show Face the Music, as well as the Miss America Pageant from 1980 to 1981. His charm and polished presence made him a natural fit for this new role.
While his acting career slowed down in later years, Ely made occasional appearances in films and television. He retired from acting in the early 2000s, but his contributions to the industry and his iconic portrayal of Tarzan left an indelible mark on popular culture.
Personal Life
Ron Ely married his first wife, Cathy Ely, in 1959, though they later divorced. In 1984, he married Valerie Lundeen, with whom he had three children. Ely’s personal life made headlines in 2019 after a tragic incident at his family home in Santa Barbara, California, which resulted in the deaths of his wife and son.
Legacy
Ron Ely’s portrayal of Tarzan remains one of the most memorable in television history. His dedication to performing his own stunts, combined with his portrayal of a more modern, sophisticated Tarzan, helped redefine the character for a new generation.
