James Darren met an unexpected demise recently. Details concerning how he died have been shared online and confirmed by the late star’s son.
“T.J. Hooker” star and teen idol James Darren passed away unexpectedly on Monday, September 2, at the age of 88. His son, Jim Moret, recently confirmed the sad news to a media outlet and explained what happened.
James Darren at Creation Entertainment’s Official Star Trek Convention in Burlingame, California on December 13, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
According to Jim, the beloved actor, known for playing the charismatic dreamboat surfer in the popular classic “Gidget,” in which he starred alongside famous late actress Sandra Dee, died while he was asleep in Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Sandra Dee and James Darren in a scene from “Gidget” in 1959. | Source: Getty Images
The late talent’s son revealed further that his dad had been admitted to the hospital the week prior (the week of August 26) to undergo an aortic valve replacement.
However, James was unfortunately unable to do so as a result of not having enough strength to get the procedure done at that time.
James Darren at the 2nd Annual Borgnine Movie Star Gala Honoring Actor Joe Mantegna in Studio City, California on February 1, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
The day before his passing (Sunday, September 1), James was rushed back to the hospital. Speaking about how his father’s passing came as a shock to the family, Jim disclosed, “It was kind of a surprise to be quite honest with you. I mean, we knew that he was not well, but we didn’t expect this.”
James Darren speaking at the 13th Annual Star Trek Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada on August 1, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Discussing his dad’s final moments, the grieving son, who is a chief correspondent for “Inside Edition,” went on to explain that before he died, James was able to express the love he had for his family.
The “Gidget Goes to Rome” actor, who contributed significantly to popularizing the 1960s surfing craze, was not in any pain when he passed away peacefully.
Struggling to grapple with the loss of his beloved father, Jim expressed, “I always thought he would pull through because he was so cool. He was always cool.” His words reflect the incredible legacy that James leaves behind from his time as a singer and teen idol.
Reminiscing over James’ celebrated character in “Gidget,” Moondoggie, Jim marveled at how many people his father connected with because of the role. “I remember telling him what a gift it was,” recalled the chief correspondent.
James also got to share his artistic prowess with his grandchildren. Discussing his late father’s life with a news outlet, the late actor’s son mentioned how he took his children to see James perform at the South Point Hotel in 2018.
Jim reflected on how amazing it was for him and his kids to see James show off his skills. “He had the swagger, voice, talent, and charm. Their grandfather was cool,” boasted Jim.
James’ track record of success as not only an actor but also a singer saw him score prime spots on Billboard’s Hot 100 several times.
In 1961, his song “Goodbye Cruel World” took the music chart’s number three slot. The next year, “Her Royal Majesty” — another one of James’ hits — placed sixth, and in the same year, his song “Conscience” took number eleven.
Apart from being a successful singer and actor, James also directed several series, including “Melrose Place,” “Hunter,” “The A-Team,” and “Beverly Hills, 90210.” The entertainment powerhouse is survived by his sons, Jim, Christian, and Tony Darren, his five grandchildren, and his wife, Evy Norlund.
According to reports, James was also the godfather of famous singer Nancy Sinatra’s daughter, A.J. Lambert. Upon hearing of James’ passing, Nancy took to X to pen a heartfelt dedication.
“One of my dearest, closest friends in all the world, of all my life has passed away […] Wishing him a fast & beautiful journey through the Universe & beyond,” wrote the artist before highlighting her love for James’ family.
Responding to Nancy’s tribute, Jim stated, “Nancy. My father loved you. Thank you so much for your kind and loving words.” Joining the people who extended their condolences and tributes, the daughter of famous late singer Al Martino also shared a dedication online.
After expressing her heartache, Alison Martino divulged what good friends her dad and James were. The two deceased stars’ friendship dates back 65 years or more, according to Alison, who shared black and white nostalgic photos of the two from the ’70s.
“We stayed in touch with James all these years and just saw him recently so this is tough. I take comfort in knowing they’re both on the same mural in their [hometown alongside] Eddie Fisher and Frankie Avalon. It’s all too much lately,” said Alison at the end of her message.
RIP to an iconic entertainer, loving husband, father and grandfather. We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’ bereaved loved ones.