Gidget Star James Darren Passed Away at 88
James Darren, known for igniting the 1960s surfing craze and endearing himself as Moondoggie in "Gidget," passed away peacefully at 88 on September 2, 2024, in a Los Angeles hospital, as reported by his son, Jim Moret. Born on June 8, 1936, in Philadelphia as James William Ercolani, Darren embarked on a multifaceted career that included roles as a singer, actor, and television director, making him a beloved figure in multiple industries. This is prepared by SSP.
Darren became a teen idol following his breakout role in the 1959 film "Gidget," acting alongside Sandra Dee. He recounted his admiration for Dee, calling her perfect for the role. The movie, based on Frederick Kohner’s novel about teenage surfing, catalyzed pop culture's focus on surfing. Riding this wave of success, Darren secured a recording contract and garnered hits like "Goodbye Cruel World" and "Her Royal Majesty." His role as Moondoggie was so iconic that he appeared in sequels "Gidget Goes Hawaiian" and "Gidget Goes to Rome," strengthening his status as America’s favorite surf boy.
Beyond "Gidget," Darren’s repertoire included notable films like "The Guns of Navarone" and TV series "The Time Tunnel" and "T.J. Hooker," where he played Officer Jim Corrigan from 1983 to 1986. His performance earned him widespread recognition, including opportunities to direct for television series such as "Beverly Hills 90210" and "Melrose Place." His son revealed that despite Darren's cool exterior about not undergoing an aortic valve replacement, he believed his father was invincible due to his unyieldingly cool demeanor.
Warping into the future, Darren landed a fan-favorite role as Vic Fontaine in "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," feely bringing his crooning skills to the fictional Las Vegas lounge. Appearing in seven episodes, Fontaine’s warm, self-aware programming stole hearts on and off-screen. Cast members, such as Nana Visitor, deeply connected with him; emotionally charged scenes, particularly his rendition of "The Way You Look Tonight," left lasting impressions.
In personal facets, Darren married twice - first to Gloria whom he shared son Jim Moret, an aka. Inside Edition Correspondent, then to Miss Denmark 1958, Evy Norlund. Together, they had sons Christian and Tony Darren. His charisma spilled into real-life relationships, becoming the godfather of Nancy Sinatra's daughter, A.J. Lambert.
His remarkable journey saw him influencing pop culture, music, and television for over six decades, leaving a significant twin imprint of his artistic and personal life. From his roles in making surfing and lounge singing popular, to his significant role unfolded in his songwriting and a substantial stint in directing, Darren's presence will be dearly missed by his extended Star Trek family and anyone remotely connected with his illustrious journey.