James Darren, the iconic teen idol of the 1950s best known for his role as Moondoggie in the “Gidget” films, has passed away at the age of 88. The news was shared by close friend Nancy Sinatra on Instagram, where she mourned the loss of Darren, who was also the godfather to her daughter, AJ Lambert. Sinatra described Darren as one of her “dearest, closest friends” and wished him a “fast and beautiful journey through the Universe.”
Darren died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles after being admitted to the cardiac unit. His son, Jim Moret revealed that Darren was too weak to undergo a surgical aorta valve replacement and passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Born June 8, 1936, in Philadelphia, Darren studied under renowned acting coach Stella Adler and gained fame for his portrayal of Moondoggie in the “Gidget” series, which included the 1959 original, “Gidget Goes Hawaiian” (1961), and “Gidget Goes to Rome” (1963).
In addition to his acting career, Darren achieved success as a singer in the mid-1960s, with notable hits including “Goodbye Cruel World” and “Her Royal Majesty.” His musical talent led to a memorable role as Vic Fontaine, a holographic lounge singer, on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” in the 1990s.
Darren also made significant contributions to television through roles in series such as “The Time Tunnel” (1966) and “T.J. Hooker” in the 1980s. He transitioned to directing in the 1990s and 2000s, working on popular shows like “Melrose Place” and “Beverly Hills, 90210.”
He is survived by his wife, Evy, sons Jim Moret, Christian Darren, Anthony Darren, and five grandchildren. William Shatner, a co-star from “T.J. Hooker,” expressed his condolences on X, describing Darren as a “wonderful man – so talented; so loving.”
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