Ron Ely, widely remembered as the original Tarzan of television, was a man of many talents—actor, novelist, and television host. With a career spanning several decades, Ely carved a niche for himself beyond the screen. His ability to reinvent himself, first as a Hollywood actor and later as an author and investor, showcases his creative spirit and entrepreneurial acumen.
As of 2024, Ron Ely net worth is estimated to be $7 million, testament to his enduring success across entertainment, literature, and business ventures. This comprehensive biography explores his financial milestones, career achievements, and the legacy he left behind.
Early Life and Academic Background
Ronald Pierce Ely was born on June 21, 1938, in Hereford, Texas. He spent his early years in Amarillo, Texas, where his upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for storytelling. He attended Amarillo High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Texas at Austin, where he focused on drama and literature. His academic years laid the groundwork for the creative pursuits that would define his life.
Career in Acting
Rise to Fame with “Tarzan”
Ron Ely’s big break came in 1966 when he was cast as the titular character in the NBC series Tarzan. His portrayal of the iconic jungle hero captured the hearts of millions, earning him worldwide fame. Ely famously performed nearly all his own stunts, gaining recognition not just for his acting but for his physicality and adventurous spirit.
His two-season run on Tarzan from 1966 to 1968 remains his most celebrated role, significantly contributing to Ron Ely net worth by establishing him as a household name.
Other Acting Highlights
After the success of Tarzan, Ely landed a series of notable roles, including the titular character in the film Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze (1975). He also appeared in popular television shows like The Aquanauts, Fantasy Island, and The Love Boat. His performances in films such as South Pacific and The Night of the Grizzly solidified his place as a versatile actor in Hollywood.
Writing Career and Literary Success
Post-acting, Ely turned his focus to writing, authoring two novels—Night Shadows and East Beach—in the 1990s. These mystery thrillers introduced readers to Jake Sands, a private investigator navigating the dark underbelly of California. Ely’s success as a writer contributed not only to his wealth but also to his reputation as a man of diverse creative talents.
Exploring Ron Ely Net Worth
Earnings from Acting
Ely earned the majority of his wealth from acting in the 1960s and 70s, with leading roles in television and film. At the peak of his career, he earned $10,000 to $15,000 per episode—equivalent to significant sums today considering inflation. His guest appearances and recurring roles in latter-day television projects added to his income.
Real Estate Investments
One of the lesser-known aspects of Ely’s financial story is his involvement in real estate investments. He and his late wife, Valerie Lundeen, lived in a luxurious Santa Barbara mansion, which was transformed into a rental property after Valerie’s death in 2019. The property brought in $20,000–$25,000 per month in rental income, becoming a steady source of earnings in his later years.
Historical Net Worth Growth
| Year | Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 1970 | $1 million |
| 1985 | $3 million |
| 2000 | $5 million |
| 2024 | $7 million |
2024 Net Worth Breakdown
| Income Source | Amount |
|---|---|
| Acting and Royalties | $3.5 million |
| Book Sales | $1 million |
| Real Estate Investments | $2.5 million |
Personal Life and Legacy
Family and Tragedy
Ron Ely married twice. His first marriage to Helen Janet Triplet ended in divorce, but his union with Valerie Lundeen in 1984 led to a family of three children. Sadly, in a tragic incident in 2019, Valerie was murdered by their son, Cameron Ely, who was later killed by law enforcement.
Ely retired from public life after the incident, spending time with his daughters while navigating immense personal loss. He passed away on September 29, 2024, at the age of 86, in Los Alamos, California.
Lifestyle
Despite his star status, Ron Ely led a relatively modest life. He was known for his love of the outdoors, a passion that aligned seamlessly with his Tarzan persona. His Santa Barbara home, adorned with lush greenery and nature-inspired elements, reflected this lifestyle.
Physical Appearance
Standing 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm) tall, Ely’s towering figure and athletic build made him the perfect fit for action-driven roles like Tarzan and Doc Savage. Even in his later years, he maintained a dignified and charismatic appearance.
Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ronald Pierce Ely |
| Birthdate | June 21, 1938 |
| Death | September 29, 2024 |
| Age (2024) | 86 years old |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (193 cm) |
| Profession | Actor, Novelist, Television Host |
| Net Worth (2024) | $7 million |
| Notable Roles | Tarzan, Doc Savage |
Latest News
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Real Estate Legacy
Following Ely’s passing, his Santa Barbara property is expected to be sold, with proceeds going to his family estate. -
Literary Reappraisal
Reprints of Ely’s mystery novels are gaining newfound attention, appreciating in value among collectors. -
Tarzan Revival Homage
Announcements from Hollywood have hinted at a potential revival series that will pay homage to Ely’s original portrayal of Tarzan.
FAQs About Ron Ely Net Worth
1. What is Ron Ely net worth in 2024?
Ron Ely’s net worth as of 2024 is estimated to be $7 million, derived from acting, book sales, and investments.
2. How did Ron Ely earn his wealth?
His wealth comes primarily from his acting roles in films and television shows, royalties, book sales, and rental income from real estate.
3. What were Ron Ely’s most famous roles?
Ely is best remembered for playing Tarzan in the 1966-68 NBC series Tarzan and Doc Savage in the 1975 film adaptation.
4. Did Ron Ely continue acting after Tarzan?
Yes, Ely appeared in various TV shows, films, and hosting gigs, even stepping into writing novels in the 90s.
5. What happened to Ron Ely’s family?
Ely endured personal tragedy in 2019, when his son killed his wife, Valerie. Ely passed away in 2024.
Final Thoughts
Ron Ely net worth reflects a multifaceted life dedicated to creativity and adaptability. From his breakthrough role as Tarzan to his impactful literary works, Ely leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, talent, and resilience. While his life was marked by moments of great success and profound tragedy, he remained an enduring figure who inspired fans worldwide.
