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
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
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.
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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.
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“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.
One of my dearest, closest friends in all the world, of all my life has passed away. Godfather to my daughter, AJ. Wishing him a fast & beautiful journey through the Universe & beyond. Godspeed, sweet Jimmy. My heart is torn but full of love for Evy, Christian, Anthony & Jimmy Jr pic.twitter.com/n3WxuLzlK8
— Nancy Sinatra (@NancySinatra) September 2, 2024
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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.
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RIP to an iconic entertainer, loving husband, father and grandfather. We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’ bereaved loved ones.