James Darren, star of 'Gidget' and 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,' dies at 88

James Darren, star of "Gidget" and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," dies at 88, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

James Darren, the teen idol who became famous for his role in "Gidget" and later appeared in shows like "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" and "T.J. Hooker," passed away at the age of 88 on Monday at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. His son, Jim Moret, confirmed the news, noting that Darren expressed his love for his family while being treated in the cardiac unit. "He was a good man. He was very talented," Moret said. "He was forever young."

Born in Philadelphia, Darren began his acting career after studying with Stella Adler in New York. He signed with Columbia Pictures, making his film debut in "Rumble on the Docks." His breakthrough role came in the 1959 film "Gidget," where he played the surfer Moondoggie. Darren also sang the title track for the movie, which became a significant hit and led to a successful singing career. He achieved a gold record with "Goodbye Cruel World" in 1961 and released over 14 albums throughout his career.

Darren continued his acting career with roles in films such as "The Guns of Navarone" and "Because They’re Young." Despite typecasting frustrations, he reprised his Moondoggie role in sequels "Gidget Goes Hawaiian" and "Gidget Goes to Rome."

In television, Darren starred in "The Time Tunnel" and became a regular on "T.J. Hooker" from 1983 to 1986. He also transitioned to directing, working on popular series like "Beverly Hills, 90210" and "Melrose Place." In 1998, he gained a new fan base as Vic Fontaine, the holographic lounge singer on "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine."

James Darren is survived by his wife, Evy, and sons Jim Moret, Christian Darren, and Tony Darren, along with five grandchildren.