James Darren, Teen Idol Actor in 'Gidget,' Singer and Director, Dies at 88

A Multi-Talented Hollywood Icon

James Darren, the charismatic actor, singer, and director who rose to fame as the heartthrob Moondoggie in the 1959 classic "Gidget," passed away at the age of 88.

Actor, Singer, and Director

• Darren's career spanned decades, encompassing film, television, and music.
• He released several hit songs, including "Goodbye Cruel World" and "Gidget Go Surfing."
• As a director, he helmed episodes of popular TV shows such as "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" and "The Rockford Files."