Ron Ely, the actor best known for portraying Tarzan in the classic 1960s television series, passed away at the age of 86 after spending many years away from the public eye. While audiences remembered him for his strength, charisma, and heroic screen presence, his later life was shaped by profound personal loss.
Ely’s passing came several years after a tragic family event that deeply affected his remaining years. In October 2019, his wife of 35 years, Valerie Lundeen Ely, died at their home in Santa Barbara, California. That same day also resulted in the loss of their son, Cameron Ely, following a confrontation with law enforcement.
These events marked a difficult final chapter for an actor once celebrated worldwide for bringing one of fiction’s most iconic heroes to life.
Rising to Fame as Television’s Tarzan
Ron Ely rose to prominence in the mid-1960s when he was cast as the lead in Tarzan, an NBC television series that aired from 1966 to 1968. Based on the character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs, the show presented a more thoughtful and articulate version of Tarzan than earlier adaptations.
Unlike previous portrayals, Ely’s Tarzan spoke fluent English, demonstrated emotional intelligence, and often faced moral challenges. This fresh approach helped the series stand out and earned Ely widespread recognition during its original run.
The physically demanding role required extensive training, and Ely performed many of his own stunts. His athletic build and confident presence quickly made him a familiar name in households across the country.
Career Beyond Tarzan
After Tarzan, Ron Ely continued working steadily in film and television throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He starred in the 1975 adventure film Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze and appeared in popular TV series such as Fantasy Island, The Love Boat, Wonder Woman, and CHiPs.
Despite his success, Ely maintained a relatively low profile compared to many Hollywood actors. By the late 1990s, he began stepping away from acting to focus more on family life.
He officially retired in 2001, later making a brief return in the 2014 television movie Expecting Amish, which became his final on-screen role.
A Quiet Life Away From the Spotlight
In retirement, Ely chose a peaceful and private lifestyle. He rarely appeared in interviews and avoided public events, preferring time with family over continued fame.
Those who knew him described him as thoughtful, reserved, and deeply devoted to his loved ones. While proud of his career, Ely appeared to value his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather most.
Valerie Lundeen Ely: Her Life and Achievements
Valerie Lundeen Ely had accomplishments of her own. Before her marriage, she worked as a flight attendant and gained national recognition through beauty pageants.
In 1980, she won the title of Miss Airline International, followed by Miss Florida USA in 1981, which allowed her to compete in the Miss USA pageant. Her achievements reflected discipline, confidence, and professionalism.
Ron Ely and Valerie married in 1984 and shared 35 years together. They raised three children—daughters Kirsten and Kaitland, and son Cameron—while maintaining a largely private family life in California.
Family Life and Milestones
Friends and family described Valerie as devoted and family-oriented. She was actively involved in her children’s lives and known for creating a close-knit household.
In 2018, the couple welcomed their first grandchild, a milestone that brought them great joy. Valerie was 62 years old at the time of her death.
The Events of October 2019
On October 15, 2019, authorities responded to a call at the Ely residence. Valerie Lundeen Ely was found deceased inside the home. Law enforcement later identified the couple’s son, Cameron Ely, as a suspect.
Following a search, deputies encountered Cameron outside the residence. During the incident, he was fatally shot. No officers were injured. Standard investigations were conducted following the event.
The case drew national media attention due to Ron Ely’s public profile and the tragic nature of the situation.
Legal Action and Aftermath
In 2020, Ron Ely filed a wrongful death lawsuit related to the incident involving his son. The lawsuit raised questions regarding the use of force, while authorities stated that deputies acted according to their training and policies. The matter proceeded through the legal system.
Afterward, Ely remained largely out of public view, focusing on family and personal matters.
Ron Ely’s Final Years
In his final years, Ron Ely lived quietly, with limited public appearances. Details about his health were kept private.
He passed away in 2024 at the age of 86, closing a life marked by both professional success and personal hardship.
Remembering a Life Beyond the Screen
Ron Ely is remembered for his influential portrayal of Tarzan and his contributions to television and film. Valerie Lundeen Ely is remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and accomplished individual in her own right.
Together, their story highlights the human side of public figures and serves as a reminder that fame does not protect against life’s challenges.
Their legacy remains one of love, family, and resilience amid adversity.
