James Darren's Son Confirms His Tragic Cause of Death

Did you know that James Darren was originally born James William Ercolani? Did you know he studied under the legendary acting coach Stella Adler before making it big in Hollywood?

▬Contents of this video▬
00:00 - Intro
00:49 - The News Breaks
01:54 - The Heart of the Matter
03:33 - A Life Well-Lived
05:26 - The Transition to Television
06:54 - Behind the Camera
07:19 - The Legacy Continues
08:14 - Personal Life and Relationships
08:45 - The Impact of James Darren
09:41 - Outro

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James Darren, the multi-talented entertainer who captured hearts as Moondoggie in the Gidget films and later as Vic Fontaine in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, has passed away at 88. His son, Jim Moret, chief correspondent for Inside Edition, confirmed that Darren died in his sleep at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on September 2, 2024. Darren had been hospitalized for heart-related issues and was deemed too weak for a needed aortic valve replacement.

Born in Philadelphia in 1936, Darren's career spanned over six decades, encompassing acting, singing, and directing. He rose to fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s with roles in films like The Gene Krupa Story and The Guns of Navarone. His musical career included hits like "Goodbye Cruel World," which held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard charts for six weeks in 1961.

Darren's versatility shone through his television work, starring in series such as The Time Tunnel and T.J. Hooker. He later found success as a director, helming episodes of popular shows like Melrose Place and Beverly Hills, 90210. His role as the holographic lounge singer Vic Fontaine on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine introduced him to a new generation of fans, showcasing his enduring appeal and adaptability.

Survived by his wife Evy Norlund, sons Jim, Christian, and Anthony, and several grandchildren, Darren leaves behind a legacy that spans generations of entertainment. His passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood, but his contributions to film, television, and music will continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.

James Darren's Son Confirms His Tragic Cause of Death

[lillybrandy]

James Darren was my secret Moon Doggy throughout my growing teen years, even though I was only 1 year old when “Gidget” was released and I saw that movie so many times during my teens, still watching it today in my 60’s. He was still so utterly handsome in his 80’s. ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[gcaspillo]

I was so sad to hear of his passing. Good By Cruel World was one of my favorite songs favorite film Gidget 🎬I had such a crush on him as well. R.I.P. James Daren I grew up with you 😢 9:51

[MustangWriter]

What a wonderful tribute to James Darren. My condolences to his son and family. Being a 'Boomer' James was all over the place while growing up; radio, my older sisters records, movies, tv. To me he was HOLLYWOOD at it's best. A talented guy who could've been your older brother that happened to have great genetics. Thanks for this vid. James Darren is too ingrained in American pop culture not to have this wonderful epilouge. Thank you. 👍

[sharonnitschneider]

I am so sad to see him pass away. He was one of the most handsome men of my era.

[ChristinaCoombs-xg]

Gidget was my favorite James Darren movie! 🥰

[JonteTheArtist]

Honestly this is my first time hearing about James Daren. I recognized the son thats a journalist.
They both look so much alike, strong resemblance. Dad and son. Both are handsome! ❤

I enjoy learning about James. I knew of some of the actors from back then way before my time. This is my first time at age 46 learning who James was. ❤

[marsh]

💞 Such a sad loss. Mr Darren' talent, charisma & all around great professionalism, is Hollywood, at it' classiest! His appearances never disappointed!

Thank you, Mr Darren for leaving us with a stellar body of fine work.

Rest in eternal peace. ☄️

[marthaavila]

I remember him may he rest in peace with the Lord Jesus Christ, amen and God be with his family!!!♥️

[sharonnitschneider]

I am an 82 year old woman and I have watched and listened to him for me life tim. U amao

[NancyConn-wj]

Gidget Goes To Rome was my favorite James Darren movie.

[pouvez]

I thought this would be a video of his son Jim Moret talking about his Father. He died of heart failure in his sleep at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. That was stated in the News Report. He covers his entire life in a two-hour interview which can be viewed on YouTube.

[billnixon]

😮😮😮😢😢😢Just learned of this! So sad 😥! RIP Jimmy Darrin! He was awesome! Even a guy like me could love this guy! Time Tunnel, Hooker & Yes a rerun of Gigit would get me! Thx Dude! 🎉🎉🎉😊❤

[johnlevison]

He was great in "The Time Tunnel" !

[lisanidog]

Darren died from congestive heart failure in his sleep, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, on September 2, 2024. He was 88. He’s in Wikipedia.

[rextrek]

5th He confirmed my Gayness as a kid / made my eyes widen / tho I did not know why or what it was at the when he was in TIME TUNNEL, lil' boy heart was smitten in 60' was so dammed Handsome

[antoniocarlosmoreira]

poderia ter feito um final do seriado tunel do tempo, para homenagear seus fãs

[chapterthomas]

Why does his son have a different last name...Moret...instead of Darrenm

[Kroonerguy]

His son's last name is pronounced Mo-Ray. Get it right.

[thejughead]

R.I.P. James Darren, you gave me wonderful memories growing up in the 1970's. Thank you brother an God bless.