Ron Ely, born Ronald Pierce Ely on June 21, 1938, in Hereford, Texas, is best known for his iconic portrayal of Tarzan in the 1960s NBC television series.
Key Takeaways
- Ron Ely, an American actor and novelist, was born and raised in Hereford, Texas, and became famous in the mid-1960s when he played Tarzan.
- He also hosted the Miss America pageant in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
- Ron Ely, the actor known for his role as Tarzan, is estimated to be worth over $5 million.
With a career that spanned several decades, Ely made a memorable mark on Hollywood, establishing himself not only as an actor but also as a novelist and television host.
Though he has recently stepped away from the spotlight, Ely’s contributions to the entertainment industry resonate with fans worldwide.
Early Career and “Tarzan” Fame
Ely first became famous in the mid-1960s when he played Tarzan, the jungle hero made famous in literature and film.
The TV series aired from 1966 to 1968, which brought him widespread recognition.
Ely’s portrayal, characterized by rugged physicality and charm, made him one of the most memorable Tarzans in Hollywood history.
His willingness to perform many stunts only added to his appeal as an authentic action star of the era.
After his success with Tarzan, Ely continued to work in entertainment, expanding his repertoire beyond acting.
He took on roles as a television host, most notably hosting the Miss America pageant in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Ely also made occasional film appearances, including his lead role in Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze and a guest role in Superman, further showcasing his versatility as an actor.
In addition to his on-screen work, Ely explored new creative paths by writing mystery novels (East Beach, East Beach 2, East Beach: A Mystery Featuring Jake Sands and Night Shadows)
His raid into writing proved his adaptability and talent across multiple fields, a testament to his ongoing career in entertainment.
Financial Success and Net Worth
Ron Ely’s career has brought him fame and fortune.
His long-running success as an actor, hosting gigs, and writing work have contributed to his estimated net worth of over $5 million.
From his memorable performance as Tarzan to his successful hosting and writing, Ron Ely’s contributions to Hollywood have left a lasting impact.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Ron Ely passed away at the age of 86 years on September 29, 2024.
- In 2019, his wife was stabbed to d*ath at their home by their 30-year-old son.
- Ron Ely was the father of three children: Kikiely, Kaitland, and Cameron.
- He later attended Amarillo High School, joined the University of Texas at Austin in the mid-1950s, and was in ROTC.