James Darren, the beloved actor noted for his memorable roles in classic films like Gidget and television hits such as T.J. Hooker and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, has sadly passed away at the age of 88.
It has been reported by TMZ that Darren passed peacefully in his sleep at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles on Monday.
While the specific cause of his passing isn’t clear at this moment, his son, Jim Moret, shared with TMZ that Darren had been experiencing heart problems and was under care at the cardiac unit of Cedars-Sinai Hospital.
Initially, Darren visited the hospital to undergo an aortic valve replacement. However, doctors determined that he was not strong enough for the surgery at that time.
He returned home after that but had to be rehospitalized shortly thereafter.
“I always thought he would pull through,” his son Jim lovingly recalled, “because he was so cool. He was always cool.”
James Darren became famous as a teen sensation when he took on the iconic role of Moondoggie in the 1959 hit movie Gidget. His charm and talent led him to reprise his role in the subsequent sequels Gidget Goes Hawaiian and Gidget Goes to Rome.
He also portrayed the savvy police officer Jim Corrigan on the television series T.J. Hooker, appearing in an impressive total of 66 episodes over four seasons.
Beyond his acting prowess, James Darren had a successful musical career and is best remembered for singing the catchy theme song for Gidget. His talents extended behind the camera as well where he directed episodes for popular shows like Melrose Place, Beverly Hills, 90210, and The A-Team.
We bid farewell to James Darren and remember him fondly. Rest in peace, James.