James Darren, known for his transition from a teen idol in films like “Gidget” to prominent roles in television series such as “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “T.J. Hooker,” passed away on Monday at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles at the age of 88.
His son Jim Moret shared that Darren had the opportunity to express his love for his family during his treatment in the cardiac unit, describing him as a talented man who remained “forever young.”
Moret expressed gratitude that his father embraced his iconic role as the surfer Moondoggie in the “Gidget” film and continued to engage with his fans over the years.
Born in Philadelphia, Darren trained in acting under Stella Adler in New York before signing with Columbia Pictures, where he made his film debut in “Rumble on the Docks.” He went on to star in movies such as “Operation Madball” and “Gunmen’s Walk” prior to his notable role in the 1959 teen film “Gidget,” alongside Sandra Dee and Cliff Robertson. Darren also recorded the title track for the successful film, which was inspired by the life of a teenage surfer girl in Malibu and spawned a popular television series.
The theme song from “Gidget” helped launch Darren’s singing career, leading to a gold record for “Goodbye Cruel World” in 1961 and the release of over 14 albums. He continued to act in various films, including “The Guns of Navarone,” “The Gene Krupa Story,” “All the Young Men,” and “Because They’re Young.”
Darren returned to his Moondoggie role in sequels such as “Gidget Goes Hawaiian” and “Gidget Goes to Rome,” though he grew weary of being typecast. He then ventured into television, starring in “The Time Tunnel” and guest-starring on many series including “Love, American Style,” “Fantasy Island,” and “The Love Boat.”
From 1983 to 1986, he was a regular on “T.J. Hooker” and expanded his career to include directing, contributing to shows like “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Melrose Place.”
Darren found a new audience in 1998 when he portrayed Vic Fontaine, a holographic lounge singer in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.”
He is survived by his wife Evy, sons Jim Moret, Christian Darren, and Tony Darren, along with five grandchildren.