Teen Idol and ‘T.J. Hooker’ Star James Darren Passes Away Unexpectedly
Teen Idol & ‘T.J. Hooker’ Star James Darren Unexpectedly Dies
James Darren passed away unexpectedly not too long ago. Information about his demise has been made public and verified by the late celebrity’s son.
Teen idol and “T.J. Hooker” star James Darren unexpectedly passed away on Monday, September 2, at the age of 88. Jim Moret, his son, recently gave a media outlet confirmation of the tragic news and an explanation of what transpired.
Jim claims that the cherished actor, best remembered for his role as the endearing dreamboat surfer in the renowned classic “Gidget,” which he co-starred in with the late, great actress Sandra Dee, passed away in Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles while he was asleep.
The late talent’s son went on to say that his father had been hospitalized the week before, on August 26, in order to have an aortic valve replacement.
Unfortunately, James lacked the strength to complete the treatment at that time, therefore he was unable to do so.
James was brought back to the hospital on Sunday, September 1, the day before he passed away. When asked how the family was surprised by his father’s death, Jim said, “To be completely honest with you, it was somewhat of a surprise. Even though we were aware of his health issues, this was unexpected.”
The bereaved son, who serves as chief correspondent for “Inside Edition,” continued to talk about his father’s last moments and revealed that James had the opportunity to show his family how much he loved them before he passed away.
The “Gidget Goes to Rome” actor, who made a big impact on the 1960s surfing craze, died quietly without experiencing any discomfort.
Jim, who was having a hard time processing the death of his father, said, “I always thought he would pull through because he was so cool.” He was cool all the time.” His remarks capture the amazing impact that James’s career as a performer and teenage idol has left behind.
Thinking back to James’s well-known portrayal as Moondoggie in “Gidget,” Jim was amazed at how many people his father was able to relate to because of the part. “I recall informing him what a gift it was,” the top journalist said in reflection.
James also had the opportunity to show his grandchildren his creative abilities. The late actor’s son talked about his father’s life with a news outlet, mentioning how he took his kids to see James play at the South Point Hotel in 2018.
Jim thought back to how great it had been to watch James demonstrate his abilities for him and his children. “He exuded charisma, talent, swagger, and voice. “Their grandfather was awesome,” Jim bragged.
James had a successful career as both an actor and a singer, landing him in high places on Billboard’s Hot 100 multiple times.
His song “Goodbye Cruel World” peaked at number three on the 1961 music chart. James’ successful song “Her Royal Majesty” came in sixth place the following year, while his song “Conscience” came in at number eleven.
James was a renowned singer and actor in addition to being a director of various television shows, such as “Hunter,” “Melrose Place,” “The A-Team,” and “Beverly Hills, 90210.” The legendary entertainer leaves behind his wife, Evy Norlund, five grandchildren, and his sons, Jim, Christian, and Tony Darren.
A.J. Lambert, the daughter of famed singer Nancy Sinatra, reportedly has James as her godfather. After learning of James’s passing, Nancy wrote a moving memorial on X.
“I lost one of my best and closest friends ever—someone I’ve known my entire life. The artist began, “Wishing him a fast & beautiful journey through the Universe & beyond,” then expressed her affection for James’ family.
In response to Nancy’s laudatory remarks, Jim said, “Nancy. You were cherished by my father. I really appreciate your nice and heartfelt remarks. Along with the many who sent tributes and condolences, the daughter of late singer Al Martino also posted an homage on social media.
Alison Martino talked about her heartbreak before revealing how close her dad and James were. According to Alison, who posted vintage black and white pictures of the two from the 1970s, the two departed celebrities were friends for at least 65 years.
It’s difficult because we have been in contact with James for a long time and we haven’t seen him in a while. The fact that they both appear beside Eddie Fisher and Frankie Avalon on the same painting in their city gives me comfort. “It’s all too much these days,” Alison concluded her message.
Farewell to a legendary performer, devoted spouse, dad, and grandpa. We send James’s grieving loved ones our deepest sympathies.
