James Darren, a teen idol known for his role in the 1960s surfing craze film “Gidget,” passed away at the age of 88 in Los Angeles. He played the character Moondoggie opposite Sandra Dee in the hit movie, which helped spark interest in surfing across the country. Darren had a successful career as an actor, singer, and director, working on popular TV shows like “Beverly Hills 90210” and “Melrose Place.” He also appeared in films and had several hit singles, including “Goodbye Cruel World” and “Her Royal Majesty.” Darren continued to be active in television throughout his career, landing roles in shows like “The Time Tunnel” and “T.J. Hooker.” He later transitioned into directing, becoming a sought-after TV director for various series.
Born James Ercolani, Darren grew up in South Philadelphia before finding fame in Hollywood. He began performing at a young age and quickly became a star, signing with Columbia Pictures and gaining a large fan following. Darren was married twice and had three sons, including Jim Moret, a well-known journalist. Sinatra shared the news of Darren’s passing, highlighting the impact he had on her life and career. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Darren remained humble and grateful for the opportunities he received. His legacy as a talented actor, singer, and director lives on through his work in film and television.
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