James Darren, born June 8, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was an American actor, singer, and director best known for his roles in Gidget, The Time Tunnel, T.J. Hooker, and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. His career spanned over six decades, making him a beloved figure in film and television.

     Darren began his career in the 1950s, studying acting under Stella Adler in New York City. He was discovered by Joyce Selznick, leading to a contract with Columbia Pictures. His breakout role came in Gidget (1959), where he played Moondoggie, a role he reprised in Gidget Goes Hawaiian (1961) and Gidget Goes to Rome (1963). He also starred in The Gene Krupa Story (1959), The Guns of Navarone (1961), and Diamond Head (1962).

     Beyond acting, Darren had a successful music career, releasing hit singles like Goodbye Cruel World (1961) and Her Royal Majesty (1962). In the 1960s, he transitioned to television, starring as Dr. Tony Newman in The Time Tunnel (1966–1967) and later as Officer James Corrigan in T.J. Hooker (1982–1986). In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1998–1999), he played Vic Fontaine, a charismatic holographic lounge singer.

     Darren was married twice—to Gloria Terlitsky (1955–1958) and Evy Norlund (1960–2024). He had three children, including Jim Moret, a journalist. He passed away on September 2, 2024, at age 88, due to congestive heart failure.