James Darren, Former Teen Idol and ‘Gidget’ Star, Dies at 88

James Darren the Suave actor and singer who became a heartthrob in the 1950s and 60s passed away yesterday at the age of 88 best known for his roles in the Beloved gigit films and his later musical career Darren's Legacy endur as a symbol of a golden era in American pop culture Darren born James William kolini on June 8th 1936 in Philadelphia Rose to fame as a teen Idol during the late 1950s his breakthrough role came in 1959 when he starred as moond doggy the handsome suffer boyfriend of Sandra D's gig in the film gig the role reprised in two sequels cemented Darren status as a matina idol and endeared him to a generation of young fans while Darren's acting career flourished he also made a significant Mark as a singer his smooth cuning voice made hits of songs like Goodbye cruel world and her royal Majesty which resonated with the Youth of his era his musical success paralleled his film career making him a dual thread in Hollywood throughout the 1960s and70s Darren continued to act in a variety of television series and films including a memorable role in The Guns of naon 1961 in the 1980s he found a new audience with his portrayal of Vic Fontaine a holographic Lounge singer in the hit Sci-Fi series Star Trek Deep Space 9 the role which played to his strengths as both an actor and singer introduced him to a new generation of fans despite the passage of time Darren's charm never waned he remained active in the entertainment industry performing in concerts and making guest appearances on television his enduring appeal was a testament to his talent and the Deep connection he forged with his audience Darren's death marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching his films and listening to his music he is survived by his wife Evie Norland a former Miss Denmark and his three children in a career that spanned over six decades James Darren left an indelible mark on Hollywood his legacy as a teen Idol talented actor and singer will continue to be remembered by fans old and new