Renowned for his classic portrayal of Tarzan in the 1966–1968 NBC television series, Ron Ely became an icon in American entertainment. Beyond his acting, Ely had a prolific career that extended to hosting, writing, and more. Despite the personal and professional challenges he faced, Ely’s enduring legacy and contributions to the industry continue to be celebrated, with his net worth estimated at $7 million at the time of his death on September 29, 2024.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Ron Ely was born on June 2, 1938, in Hereford, Texas. Long before he was swinging through jungles on TV screens, Ely grew up with a love for the arts, eventually attending the University of Texas at Austin. His early aspirations in film led him to a brief stint as a motion picture stuntman, where he honed his physical skills and bravery. These skills would later become crucial in his portrayal of Tarzan, as Ely famously performed his own stunts on the show.
Career Breakthrough: Becoming Tarzan
Ely’s big break came in the late 1950s with smaller roles in movies and television series, but he truly captured the public’s attention in 1966 when he landed the lead role in NBC’s “Tarzan” TV series. Unlike previous actors, who portrayed Tarzan with limited speech,
Ely’s interpretation showed the character speaking in full sentences, adding depth and sophistication to the legendary role. The role required extensive physicality, and Ely took this commitment to heart by performing nearly all of his stunts, which led to numerous injuries. His portrayal of Tarzan ran for two seasons, covering 57 episodes, and made Ely a household name.
Expanding His Career in Hollywood
After his stint as Tarzan, Ely continued to expand his career. He appeared in a variety of television shows and films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In 1975, he took on the lead role in “Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze,” a movie adaptation of the beloved pulp fiction character. While the film was not a box-office hit, it gradually achieved cult status among fans of the genre.
Beyond acting, Ely took on a prominent role as the host of the Miss America pageant from 1980 to 1981, showcasing his versatility and charisma. In addition to his hosting and acting career, Ely was an accomplished writer. His literary contributions include the mystery novels Night Shadows and East Beach, which cemented his reputation as a creative force.
Ron Ely’s Family Tragedy and Personal Life
In October 2019, Ron Ely’s life was shattered by a heartbreaking family tragedy. His wife, Valerie Lundeen Ely, was killed by their son, Cameron Ely, at the family’s Santa Barbara home. In the aftermath, Cameron was fatally shot by responding deputies. The tragedy made headlines and left a lasting impact on Ely and those close to the family.
Ron had married twice in his life. His first marriage lasted from 1959 to 1961. He later married Valerie Lundeen, a former Miss Florida, in 1984, and the couple remained together until her untimely death in 2019.
Real Estate and Financial Ventures
Over the years, Ely invested in real estate, primarily in Santa Barbara, California, where he and his family resided. Their home—a 6,000-square-foot mansion nestled on more than an acre of property—was listed for sale in September 2019, a month before the tragedy. The mansion, valued at $5.1 million at that time, held many memories for the family, yet following Valerie’s passing, Ely rented out the home, with monthly rates between $20,000 and $25,000.
Ron Ely’s Net Worth at the Time of His Death
By the time of his passing in 2024, Ron Ely’s net worth was estimated to be $7 million. His wealth was accrued through his varied career in television, film, writing, and hosting. Despite experiencing personal tragedy, Ely’s financial and professional achievements underscored his resilience and dedication to his craft.
Conclusion
Ron Ely’s life and career reflected the ups and downs that come with fame. From his unforgettable portrayal of Tarzan to his heartfelt contributions in literature, Ely’s legacy in entertainment remains undeniable.
Although his life was marred by personal tragedy, his achievements in Hollywood and beyond have left a lasting mark on the industry. Ely will be remembered not only for his impressive career and his contribution to the Tarzan legacy but also for his resilience through life’s most challenging moments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ron Ely’s Net Worth and Life
1. What was Ron Ely’s net worth at his time of death?
Ron Ely’s net worth was approximately $7 million at the time of his passing in September 2024.
2. How did Ron Ely make his money?
Ely’s wealth came from a successful career in acting, hosting, and writing, as well as real estate investments. His portrayal of Tarzan, along with various TV roles, movie appearances, and book sales, contributed significantly to his earnings.
3. What roles is Ron Ely best known for?
Ron Ely is best known for playing Tarzan in the NBC television series from 1966 to 1968 and for starring as Doc Savage in the 1975 film Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze.
4. Did Ron Ely write any books?
Yes, Ron Ely authored several mystery novels, including Night Shadows and East Beach, adding a literary dimension to his diverse talents.
5. What happened in Ron Ely’s family tragedy?
In October 2019, Ron Ely’s wife, Valerie Lundeen Ely, was tragically killed by their son, Cameron Ely, at their home in Santa Barbara. Cameron was subsequently shot and killed by police in the incident’s aftermath.