Darren has made a significant transition to television, taking on the lead role in the science fiction and time-travel series The Time Tunnel. His career continued to flourish as he appeared as a guest star in numerous well-known shows including S.W.A.T., Police Woman, Charlie’s Angels, Police Story, Hawaii Five-O, The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and Melrose Place, while also indulging his passion for live musical performances. Additionally, he explored directing television episodes for series such as The A-Team, Walker, Texas Ranger, Silk Stalkings, Beverly Hills, 90210, Savannah, and Melrose Place.
From 1983 to 1986, Darren held a regular position on the police drama T.J. Hooker, portraying Officer James Corrigan alongside William Shatner. Shatner shared a tribute on X (formerly Twitter), expressing, “What a wonderful man – so talented; so loving. I had the best time with him. The world is less because of his loss.”
Fans of Star Trek recognize Darren primarily as the beloved Vic Fontaine, an entertainer who operated the popular holoprogram at Quark’s, Vic’s Las Vegas Lounge, in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. His charismatic and insightful programming made him a standout character among the Deep Space 9 crew, especially as he offered Dr. Julian Bashir dating advice and assisted Nog in coping with PTSD from the Dominion War.
In a 2019 interview with StarTrek.com, Darren reflected on his role, stating, “Vic Fontaine was like – what can I say? – it was a dream come true for me. It was one of the most enjoyable roles for me to have played.”
Regarding the series finale recording, he noted, “The finale was hard to do. The cast had been there forever, so it was hard for them, and it was hard for me, too, because my relationship with everyone had grown instantly. I loved that entire cast. When it was ending, it was so sad, sad for them and extremely sad for me, too. I’d sing that song (‘The Way You Look Tonight’) to Nana Visitor… and she’d start crying. And when she’d start crying, I’d start crying. It was tough getting through it.”
Darren is survived by his wife Evy, their sons Jim Moret, Christian Darren, and Tony Darren, five grandchildren, and one goddaughter.
The entire Star Trek family extends their condolences to Darren’s family, friends, loved ones, and fans worldwide.