Ron Ely, who became famous for his role as the title character in the NBC series Tarzan during the 1960s, has died age 86.

Ely passed away on Sept. 29 at his residence in the peaceful surroundings of Los Alamos, California, nestled within Santa Barbara County, as the Associated Press reports.

The entertainment industry notable, cherished for his notable career in acting, writing, and later mentoring, met with personal tragedy in 2019 when his wife was murdered by their son.

Cast as Tarzan after Mike Henry's departure due to an injury sustained during the filming of a pilot, Ely's portrayal was distinctive.

Ely's version showcased a well-educated Tarzan who turned away from the allure of civilization, distinguishing him from Johnny Weismuller's earlier interpretations.

Acclaimed not just for his acting prowess but also for his physicality, Ely performed his own stunts. His adept handling of stunts, combined with his interactions with wild animals such as chimpanzees and tigers, made his role memorable and impactful.

A Multi-Faceted Career Beyond Tarzan

Outside of his iconic Tarzan role, Ely's filmography included starring in Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze in 1975. Additionally, he appeared in a myriad of smaller roles across both film and television, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Ely took a step back from acting in 2001, opting to devote more time to his loved ones. He had been married to Valerie Lundeen Ely, crowned Miss Florida, since 1984 -- a romance sparked when he hosted the Miss America pageant.

The couple built a life around the three children they shared, including daughters Kirsten Casale Ely and Kaitland Ely Sweet. Ely's life of family devotion took a harrowing turn in 2019.

Tragedy Strikes the Ely Family

In a tragic incident at the family home, Ely's wife, Valerie, was murdered by their son, Cameron Ely, who was 30 at the time. The night ended with police shooting Cameron, a decision that Ely protested through legal channels.

The reason the police gave for the shooting was highly controversial. Ely, through his attorney John Burris, raised significant legal questions regarding the justification given by law enforcement officers for their actions.

As Ely's family life was marred by loss and turmoil, his first marriage, which began with his high school sweetheart in 1959, ended in divorce after two years.

Legacy of Creativity and Influence

Beyond his on-screen talents, Ely was also an author, contributing mystery novels to the literary world. His detective novels Night Shadows and East Beach introduced readers to a new character, Jake Sands, in the mid-1990s.

Despite his retirement from acting, Ely made a brief return in 2014 with the television movie Expecting Amish. This momentary return only served to reaffirm his enduring passion for storytelling.

His daughter, Kirsten Ely, vividly portrayed her father’s character, celebrating his manifold roles as an actor, author, and, above all, a guiding force for those around him. She recognized the unique impact he had on others, describing it as magical and unparalleled by anyone she had ever encountered.

Conclusively Reflecting on Ron Ely's Life

Ron Ely's life was a tapestry woven with celebrated achievements and deep personal sorrows. His portrayal of Tarzan in the 1960s cemented his cultural significance, while his dedication to his family and later pursuits in writing underscored his multifaceted talents.

His tragic personal history, marked by the loss of his wife and son, left profound questions about the circumstances surrounding that night. Yet, Ely's legacy as a positive influence in the entertainment world and beyond remains untarnished.

Ely's passing marks the end of an era for an actor who significantly impacted both screen and personal lives, leaving behind a legacy that will not be soon forgotten. As family and friends mourn his loss, they also celebrate the enduring contributions he made to their lives and the world.