Actor Ron Ely, best known as the 1960s TV Tarzan, has died at 86. His later years were overshadowed by tragedy: in 2019, his wife Valerie Lundeen Ely and their son Cameron were killed in a violent incident at their Santa Barbara home. Valerie, a former beauty queen, was stabbed, and Cameron was shot by deputies after a domestic disturbance. Ron survived but was deeply affected.
Ely rose to fame for his athletic, charismatic portrayal of Tarzan (1966–1968) and appeared in films and TV shows like Doc Savage, Fantasy Island, and The Love Boat. He also hosted the Miss America pageant in 1980–1981. Later, he largely retired to focus on family life.
Ron and Valerie married in 1984 and had three children. Valerie was remembered as devoted and warm. The 2019 deaths shocked Santa Barbara and the entertainment world, leading Ely to file a federal lawsuit over the shooting of Cameron, citing excessive force.
Born in Hereford, Texas, in 1938, Ely studied at the University of Texas before Hollywood stardom. His Tarzan was articulate and intelligent, redefining the character for TV audiences. Beyond acting, he wrote novels, including Night Shadows (1994).
Despite personal tragedies, Ely remained admired for his discipline, family devotion, and enduring legacy. He is survived by daughters Kirsten and Kaitland and his grandchildren. For fans, Ron Ely embodies both the heroism of his on-screen roles and the quiet resilience he carried through life’s hardships.