James Darren, widely recognized for his charming portrayal of Moondoggie in the Gidget films, peacefully passed away on Monday at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles at the age of 88.
His son, Jim Moret, revealed that Darren had been battling a heart-related condition. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Moret mentioned that his father was scheduled for an aortic valve replacement; however, the doctors determined he was too weak for the procedure. The family held onto hope for his recovery, but unfortunately, that hope was not realized.
Darren was initially discharged from the hospital but was readmitted after his condition worsened. «I always thought he would pull through,» Moret expressed to the media. «Because he was so cool. He was always cool.»
Darren’s career in acting and music was extensive. He notably portrayed police officer Jim Corrigan in 66 episodes of T.J. Hooker, and before that, he appeared in films like The Guns of Navarone and the ABC sci-fi series The Time Tunnel. He also made memorable guest appearances on popular shows such as The Love Boat and Fantasy Island.
However, his role as Moondoggie, the dark-haired surfer, in Gidget remains his most iconic. In the 1990s, he enjoyed a recurring role on Deep Space Nine as Vic Fontaine, the holographic lounge singer.
In addition to his acting, Darren was the voice behind the Gidget theme song, and one of his hits, «Goodbye Cruel World,» achieved chart success in 1961.
We mourn the loss of James Darren and extend our heartfelt condolences. May he rest in peace.
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