James Darren, a well-known figure in the entertainment industry who rose to fame as a teen heartthrob in the 1960s, has passed away at the age of 88. Darren, best remembered for his role in the hit film “Gidget” alongside Sandra Dee, died peacefully in his sleep at a Los Angeles hospital, according to his son Jim Moret. Despite plans for an aortic valve replacement surgery, Darren’s health did not permit the procedure.
Throughout his extensive career, Darren excelled in acting, singing, and later transitioned to a successful career as a television director. He directed episodes for popular series like “Beverly Hills 90210” and “Melrose Place,” and also appeared as Officer Jim Corrigan in “T.J. Hooker” in the 1980s. In the film “Gidget,” Darren portrayed the character Moondoggie, a surfing enthusiast who captured the hearts of young audiences in the late 1950s.
Following his success in “Gidget,” Darren ventured into music and achieved chart-topping hits with singles like “Goodbye Cruel World” and “Her Royal Majesty.” He later dabbled in adult-oriented films and continued to stay active on television, appearing in shows like “The Time Tunnel,” “The Love Boat,” and “Hawaii Five-O.”
Despite a brief hiatus from acting in the 1990s, Darren returned to the screen with roles in popular series such as “Melrose Place” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” Born James Ercolani in 1936 in South Philadelphia, Darren discovered his passion for entertainment at a young age and pursued a career in singing and acting.
Darren’s personal life included marriages to Gloria and Evy Norlund, with whom he had children. Notably, he was the godfather of Nancy Sinatra’s daughter, A.J. Lambert, showcasing his strong connections within the entertainment industry. Darren’s legacy will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike, marking the end of an era in Hollywood.
