Darren is set to transition to television as he takes on the lead role in the sci-fi time-travel series The Time Tunnel. His versatile talent allowed him to secure guest appearances in numerous beloved 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 pursuing his passion for live musical performances. Additionally, he ventured into directing episodes for series like The A-Team, Walker, Texas Ranger, Silk Stalkings, Beverly Hills, 90210, Savannah, and Melrose Place.
From 1983 to 1986, Darren portrayed Officer James Corrigan on the police drama T.J. Hooker, working alongside William Shatner, who paid tribute to him on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “What a wonderful man – so talented; so loving. I had the best time with him. The world is less because of his loss.”
Star Trek fans fondly remember Darren as Vic Fontaine, an entertainer featured in the popular holoprogram at Quark’s, known as Vic’s Las Vegas Lounge, on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. His character’s charm and wit made him a favorite among the crew, notably offering dating advice to Dr. Julian Bashir and supporting Nog as he dealt with PTSD from the Dominion War.
In a 2019 interview with StarTrek.com, Darren reflected on his role as Vic Fontaine, 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.”
He recalled the emotional experience of filming the series finale, sharing, “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; sons Jim Moret, Christian Darren, and Tony Darren; five grandchildren; and one goddaughter.
The entire Star Trek community extends their condolences to Darren’s family, friends, loved ones, and fans around the globe.