• Faith: Christian - Catholic
• Career: Actor
• Birthday:  June 08, 1936
• Date of Death:  September 02, 2024

James Darren, born James William Ercolani, was an actor, singer, and TV director. He gained fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s with roles in films like "Gidget" and "The Guns of Navarone," and achieved success as a teen pop singer with hits like "Goodbye Cruel World." Darren later starred in TV shows, notably "The Time Tunnel," "T.J. Hooker," and as Vic Fontaine in "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine."

James Darren was raised in a traditional Italian Catholic household, which played a significant role in shaping his values and outlook on life. Growing up in South Philadelphia, he was surrounded by a close-knit community where faith and family were central.

From an early age, Darren showed an interest in the arts, particularly in music and acting. His passion for performing led him to attend acting classes at the Actors Studio in New York, where he honed his craft under the guidance of Lee Strasberg, one of the most influential acting teachers of the time.

Darren's big break came in 1956 when he was discovered by talent agent Joyce Selznick. She saw potential in the young actor and helped him secure a contract with Columbia Pictures. His first major film role was in "Rumble on the Docks" (1956), where he played a juvenile delinquent. The role showcased his acting abilities and set the stage for future opportunities.,/p>

However, it was his portrayal of Moondoggie in the 1959 film "Gidget" that catapulted Darren to stardom. The film was a massive success, and Darren became a teen idol overnight. His charming performance as the surfer heartthrob endeared him to audiences, especially young fans, and led to sequels, including "Gidget Goes Hawaiian" (1961) and "Gidget Goes to Rome" (1963).

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Darren continued to build his acting career with a mix of film and television roles. He appeared in movies such as "The Guns of Navarone" (1961), where he played Private Spiro Pappadimos alongside stars like Gregory Peck and David Niven. His performance in the war epic further solidified his status as a versatile actor.

Darren also made a successful transition to television, with one of his most notable roles being Officer Jim Corrigan on the popular series "T.J. Hooker" (1983-1986). Appearing in 66 episodes, Darren became a familiar face on TV, and his chemistry with co-stars William Shatner and Heather Locklear added to the show's appeal.

In the late 1990s, Darren gained a new generation of fans with his role as Vic Fontaine, a holographic lounge singer, on "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." His portrayal of Fontaine, a character with a golden voice and a heart of gold, was one of the show's highlights, and Darren's musical performances on the series were widely praised.

In addition to his acting career, James Darren was a talented singer. He released several albums throughout the 1960s, with his single "Goodbye Cruel World" reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1961. Darren's music career complemented his acting, and he often performed songs in the films and TV shows he starred in.

His smooth vocals and easy-going style made him a popular figure in the music industry, and he continued to perform live concerts well into his later years. Darren's music remained a beloved part of his legacy, with songs like "Her Royal Majesty" and "Because You're Mine" becoming fan favorites.

In his later years, James Darren continued to work in the entertainment industry, though at a slower pace. He focused more on directing, helming episodes of popular TV shows like "Melrose Place," "Beverly Hills, 90210," and "The A-Team." His work as a director earned him respect in the industry, showcasing his talents behind the camera.

James Darren married his first wife, Gloria Terlitsky, in 1955, despite opposition due to their religious differences—Darren being Catholic and Terlitsky Jewish. They had a son, James Jr., who was later adopted by Terlitsky's third husband and became known as journalist Jim Moret. The couple divorced in 1958. In 1960, Darren married Evy Norlund, Miss Denmark 1958, and they had two sons, Christian and Anthony.

On September 2, 2024, James Darren passed away peacefully in his sleep at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. He had been battling heart issues and was under medical care at the hospital's cardiac unit.

James Darren's Religious Beliefs

Throughout his life, James Darren remained a devout Catholic. His faith was a guiding force in his life, providing him with strength and comfort during difficult times. Darren often credited his Catholic upbringing for keeping him grounded in the often turbulent world of Hollywood.

His faith also influenced his work, as he often sought out roles that aligned with his moral values. Darren was a supporter of various Catholic charities and was involved in church activities throughout his life. Even as his career soared, he never lost sight of the spiritual foundation that had been laid during his childhood.