Tarzan Star Ron Ely’s Heartbreaking Final Years After Family Tragedy

Actor Ron Ely, the beloved star who brought Tarzan to life on television in the 1960s, has passed away at the age of 86. His death closes a remarkable, yet deeply tragic chapter in Hollywood history — one marked by both adventure and heartbreaking loss.

Ely rose to fame as the jungle hero in Tarzan, which aired on NBC from 1966 to 1968. Athletic, striking, and fearless, he performed most of his own stunts, earning a reputation as one of television’s most authentic action stars. His version of Tarzan stood apart — intelligent, composed, and deeply human — redefining the role for a new generation.

Beyond the vines and jungle sets, Ely enjoyed a wide-ranging career. He appeared in Fantasy Island, The Love Boat, and Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze, and even hosted the Miss America Pageant in 1980 and 1981. By the early 2000s, he had stepped away from Hollywood to live a quieter life in Santa Barbara with his family — a choice that reflected his deep devotion to them.

But that peace was shattered in October 2019 by a tragedy that stunned the nation. Ely’s wife of 35 years, Valerie Lundeen Ely, was found dead in their California home. Valerie — a former beauty queen and devoted mother — was killed in a violent incident that also claimed the life of their son, Cameron Ely, just hours later.

According to authorities, police were called to the Ely home after reports of a domestic disturbance. Valerie was discovered inside, and Cameron was later shot and killed by responding deputies outside the residence. The shocking double tragedy left Ron Ely heartbroken and the Hollywood community reeling.

In the aftermath, Ely filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, alleging excessive use of force and mishandling of the situation. The case reignited public debate about police response during mental health crises and the limits of force in family emergencies.

Through it all, Ely retreated from the spotlight, spending his final years in quiet reflection. Friends said the actor remained kind, humble, and deeply private — a man who once embodied strength on screen but had endured pain few could imagine.

Born in Hereford, Texas, in 1938, Ron Ely grew up in Amarillo and attended the University of Texas before moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting. His breakout as Tarzan came at age 28, and his portrayal quickly became iconic. Even decades later, fans remembered his version as the thinking man’s Tarzan — brave yet compassionate, rugged yet refined.

Ely’s personal life reflected that same balance. He and Valerie raised three children — Kirsten, Kaitland, and Cameron — and built a life away from Hollywood’s chaos. Friends described their marriage as “one of the rare love stories in the industry,” grounded in mutual respect and devotion.

After the 2019 tragedy, Ely’s daughters and grandchildren became his source of strength. In interviews, those close to him said he found solace in family, faith, and the quiet rhythms of coastal life.

Now, with his passing in 2025, Hollywood says goodbye to a true classic hero — one who lived through extraordinary highs and unthinkable lows, yet always carried himself with dignity and grace.

Fans and former colleagues have flooded social media with tributes, celebrating his legacy as both an actor and a symbol of resilience. For many, Ron Ely will forever remain the Tarzan who could not only swing through the jungle — but also face life’s hardest storms with courage.