James Darren Obituary News: James Darren, an actor, director and singer who had his breakout role of Moondoggie in the 1959 movie “Gidget,” died Monday at age 88, reports confirmed. Darren died at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.
Nancy Sinatra, a singer, posted an homage to Darren on X, to which Moret replied, “Nancy You were cherished by my father. I sincerely appreciate your nice and heartfelt remarks.
According to IMDb, Darren had a long resume that included roles in both film and television, dating back to 1956. However, his performance in “Gidget” elevated him to the level of an adolescent moviegoer’s dream date. When he first became aware that he was a Hollywood phenomenon was the question posed to him in a 2015 interview with Los Angeles magazine.
Darren stated in the interview, “The defining moment was when I was at a studio in San Francisco and word got out that I was there.” “Out front, thousands of girls were yelling.” They yanked hair out of me and tackled me to the ground as I had to exit the building. I had to be rescued by the police, who then took me to the roof to wait for things to calm down. It was complete chaos.
Darren portrayed Moondoggie in the film “Gidget,” a surfer who saves the lead heroine from a bed of kelp and goes on to win her heart. Additionally, he starred in two more Gidget films: “Gidget Goes Hawaiian” (1961) and “Gidget Goes to Rome” (1963).
Alongside co-star William Shatner, Darren had supporting parts in the television series “The Time Tunnel,” “TJ Hooker,” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” In addition, he directed episodes of television programs such as Melrose Place and Beverly Hills, 90210.
Darren, who was signed to Columbia Pictures after studying acting in New York, was born in Philadelphia, according to Variety. According to the site, he is survived by his wife Evy, his three children, and five grandchildren.
Tracy