James Darren was a singer and actor best known for his work in the “Gidget” movies, as well as his recurring roles in shows like “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “T.J. Hooker.”
- Died: September 2, 2024 (Who else died on September 2?)
- Details of death: Died of congestive heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles at the age of 88.
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James Darren’s legacy
James Darren was studying acting in New York when he was discovered by talent agent Joyce Selznick, who helped him get signed to a contract with Columbia Pictures in 1956. After a handful of small roles in B movies, in 1959, Darren broke through to mainstream success and recognition when he played Moondoggie in the hit beach movie, “Gidget,” for which he also sang the title song of the same name.
The movie launched Darren into teen stardom not just on screen, but on radio, too. He had a series of pop hits during the era, including “Goodbye Cruel World,” which went to No. 3 in 1961, and the top 10 song “Her Royal Majesty.” He also returned as Moondoggie for two more “Gidget” movies, had appearances on “The Donna Reed Show” and in the 1961 hit “The Guns of Navarone,” along with other films.
By the 1970s, Darren was a regular on the nightclub singing circuit, while also doing TV show guest appearances and directing them as well. His best-known television work was his recurring role as Officer James Corrigan on the William Shatner-led police drama, “T.J. Hooker,” and as the computer-generated lounge singer Vic Fontaine on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” He largely left acting after playing Fontaine, with just two more brief screen appearances in 2001 and 2017, respectively.
Tributes to James Darren
Full obituary: The Hollywood Reporter
