In brief
Ron Ely, best known for his role as the iconic Tarzan in the 1960s television series, has passed away at 86 years old, as announced by his daughter, Kirsten Casale Ely, in a heartfelt Instagram tribute. Ely's portrayal of the beloved character on NBC was not just an acting feat; it involved rigorous stunt work that left the actor with numerous broken bones and injuries from animal encounters. After his acting career, which included appearances on notable shows such as The Love Boat and Wonder Woman, Ely ventured into writing, publishing two mystery novels before making a brief return to television in 2014. His personal life saw him first marry his high school sweetheart in 1959, later marrying Valerie, with whom he had three children. Ely breathed his last at his home in Los Alamos, California, where his daughter immortalized him as a hero and an inspiration, capturing the essence of a man cherished by family and fans alike.
