Ron Ely, Star of "Santa Barbara" and "Tarzan," Dies at 81
Ron Ely, the iconic actor known for his roles in the soap opera "Santa Barbara" and the 1966 film "Tarzan," passed away on October 29, 2021, at the age of 81. The news of his death was confirmed by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office, who reported that Ely was found deceased at his home.
Ely's career spanned decades, but he was perhaps best known for his role as the titular character in "Tarzan," a role he played with a mix of rugged masculinity and gentle charm. The film, directed by John Derek, became a cult classic, solidifying Ely's place in pop culture history.
After "Tarzan," Ely went on to have a successful career in television. He landed a recurring role on the popular soap opera "Santa Barbara" as the charming and enigmatic character, "Don Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald." His performance was critically acclaimed, earning him a Daytime Emmy Award nomination in 1991.
Ely's career wasn't confined to television. He also appeared in several films, including "The Beta Test" (1971), "The Legend of the Lone Ranger" (1981), and "The Night Rider" (1979). He was also a successful voice actor, lending his distinctive baritone to animated series such as "The New Adventures of He-Man."
Beyond his acting career, Ely was an accomplished author, publishing several books on various subjects. He was also a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, serving with the U.S. Marine Corps.
Ely's death marks the end of an era for television and film fans. He will be remembered for his charismatic performances, his enduring portrayal of Tarzan, and his dedication to his craft.
Key Takeaways:
- Ron Ely passed away on October 29, 2021, at the age of 81.
- He is best known for his role as Tarzan in the 1966 film and his performance on the soap opera "Santa Barbara."
- Ely had a successful career spanning decades, including roles in film, television, and voice acting.
- He was also an accomplished author and a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War.
- His death is a loss for the entertainment industry and his fans worldwide.
Keywords: Ron Ely, Santa Barbara, Tarzan, actor, death, obituary, soap opera, film, television, voice acting, author, veteran, Vietnam War, pop culture, entertainment, Hollywood, legacy.