Actor James Darren, Best Known for ‘T.J. Hooker’ and ‘Gidget,’ Dies at 88
James Darren, the beloved actor famed for his roles in iconic films like Gidget and TV shows such as T.J. Hooker and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, has passed away at the age of 88.
According to TMZ, Darren died peacefully in his sleep at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles on Monday. While the exact cause of his death is still unclear, his son, Jim Moret, shared with TMZ that Darren had been battling heart issues and had been receiving treatment at the hospital’s cardiac unit.
Reports suggest that Darren had initially been admitted for an aortic valve replacement surgery but was deemed too frail for the procedure. He was sent home but later returned to the hospital for further care.
In an emotional tribute, Jim Moret reflected on his father’s strength: “I always thought he would pull through because he was so cool. He was always cool.”
James Darren rose to fame as a teen idol after landing the iconic role of surfer Moondoggie in the 1959 hit Gidget. He went on to reprise the role in Gidget Goes Hawaiian and Gidget Goes to Rome, further solidifying his place in pop culture.
Darren also made his mark in television, notably with a recurring role as police officer Jim Corrigan on T.J. Hooker. He appeared in 66 episodes over the course of four seasons, becoming a fan favorite.
Beyond his acting career, Darren was a talented singer and performed the memorable theme song for Gidget. His versatility extended into directing, with a notable body of work that included episodes of popular shows like Melrose Place, Beverly Hills, 90210, and The A-Team.
Rest in peace, James Darren. Your legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of fans worldwide.
