Ron Ely, a name forever linked to the legendary character of Tarzan, made a lasting impact on both television and Hollywood. From swinging through the jungle in the 1960s to writing novels later in life, his career spanned decades.
Although Ely passed away in 2024, his contributions and legacy continue to resonate.
With an estimated net worth of over $5 million, Ron Ely’s life was one of fame, tragedy, and undeniable talent.
Who is Ron Ely?
Born Ronald Pierce Ely on June 21, 1938, in Hereford, Texas, Ron Ely grew up to become an American actor and novelist.
Best known for his role as Tarzan in the 1960s NBC television series, Ely portrayed the jungle hero with a mix of physical strength and charm.
His version of Tarzan remains one of the most memorable in Hollywood history, thanks to his commitment to performing many of his stunts.
Beyond acting, Ron explored other avenues in entertainment, including hosting and writing. From Miss America pageants in the late 1970s to writing mystery novels, Ron was a man of many talents, proving his versatility in the industry.
What Happened to Ron Ely?
In 2019, tragedy struck Ron Ely’s life when his wife, Valerie Lundeen Ely, was tragically killed by their son.
The heartbreaking event shook the Ely family, casting a shadow over his later years.
Ron himself passed away at the age of 86 on September 29, 2024, marking the end of an extraordinary yet turbulent life.
Who are Ron Ely’s Parents?
Ron Ely was born to Pearl Ely (mother) and Ronald Ely Sr. (father). Raised in Hereford, Texas, his parents provided a supportive upbringing that would later fuel his drive to succeed in Hollywood.
While there’s not much public information about their specific professions, Ron often mentioned the values his parents instilled in him, especially the importance of hard work and perseverance. These qualities influenced his long career in acting, writing, and hosting.
Who is Ron Ely Married to?
Ron Ely was married to Valerie Lundeen Ely, a former Miss Florida, for many years.
Their marriage lasted for decades, and together they had three children:
Kaitland, Kameron, and Kiki Ely. Sadly, Valerie was murdered by their son in 2019, a tragedy that left a lasting mark on Ron’s later years.
Despite the personal loss, Ron remained a devoted father and husband throughout his life.
His family meant everything to him, and their love and support were constant through the highs and lows of his life.
Ron Ely Ethnicity & Religion
Ron Ely was of Caucasian ethnicity and followed Christianity throughout his life. His faith played a quiet but meaningful role in his personal life. Raised with traditional values, Ely kept his religious beliefs private but was known to rely on them, especially during the most challenging moments of his life, such as the loss of his wife.
Ron Ely Weight & Age
As of 2024, Ron Ely was 86 years old at the time of his passing.
Throughout his acting career, Ron maintained an athletic physique, especially during his portrayal of Tarzan, where he performed many of his stunts.
In his prime, Ely stood 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighed around 210 pounds, making him an imposing yet charming figure on screen.
Ron Ely Net Worth
Ron Ely left behind a net worth of over $5 million, a testament to his long and varied career in Hollywood. His earnings came from multiple sources, including his roles in television and film, hosting gigs, and book royalties.
- Tarzan: His breakthrough came when he starred as Tarzan in the NBC television series from 1966 to 1968. The show was widely successful, boosting his career and income.
- Miss America Pageants: Ron Ely also hosted the Miss America pageant during the late 1970s and early 1980s, further expanding his profile and earning him additional income from television hosting.
- Acting Roles: After his Tarzan fame, Ely continued to act in various films, including his role in Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze and a guest role in Superman, which contributed to his fortune.
- Writing: Beyond acting, Ron Ely penned several mystery novels, including “East Beach” and its sequels. His books added another layer to his income stream, demonstrating his versatility beyond acting.
- Real Estate and Assets: Ely was also known to have invested in real estate over the years. While specific details about his properties are not widely publicized, it is known that he lived in a luxurious home in Santa Barbara, California.
Even after stepping away from the spotlight in his later years, Ron’s earnings from residuals, book sales, and previous acting roles kept his net worth steadily growing.
Though $5 million may not rival today’s A-list actors, it is a reflection of his enduring career and talent.
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Conclusion
Ron Ely was a multifaceted figure, whose portrayal of Tarzan brought him into the spotlight and whose contributions to entertainment and literature made him a lasting icon.
Despite the tragedies in his personal life, including the loss of his wife, Ron’s resilience and dedication to his craft never wavered.
With a net worth of over $5 million, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire fans and aspiring actors alike.
Whether through his unforgettable role as Tarzan or his foray into writing, Ron Ely will be remembered as a true legend in entertainment history.
