James Darren, who went from teen idol status acting in youth-oriented movies like “Gidget” to becoming an actor in TV shows such as “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “T.J. Hooker” and a singer and director, died Monday at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. He was 88.

James Darren, a multifaceted talent who transitioned from teen idol to respected actor, singer, and director, passed away on Monday at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles at the age of 88. His death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Born James William Ercolani on June 8, 1936, in Philadelphia, Darren first rose to fame in the late 1950s as a teen idol, captivating audiences with his boyish charm and good looks. 

He became a household name through his role as Moondoggie in the 1959 hit film “Gidget,” which solidified his status as a heartthrob among young audiences. The success of “Gidget” led to two sequels, further cementing Darren's place in Hollywood's golden age of youth-oriented cinema.

But Darren was more than just a pretty face; he was also a talented singer. His musical career took off in the early 1960s, with hits like "Goodbye Cruel World" and "

Her Royal Majesty," which showcased his smooth vocals and helped him cross over into the music charts. His singing career was closely tied to his acting, and he often performed songs in his movies, adding another layer to his appeal.

As he matured, Darren successfully transitioned from teen roles to more serious acting. He found new audiences with his role as Officer Jim Corrigan in the popular 1980s TV series “T.J. 

Hooker,” where he starred alongside William Shatner. Later, he garnered a whole new fanbase with his portrayal of the holographic lounge singer Vic Fontaine on “Star Trek: 

Deep Space Nine.” His performance on the show was praised for its warmth and authenticity, and it allowed Darren to combine his acting and singing talents in a way that resonated with fans of all ages.

In addition to his on-screen work, Darren also directed several episodes of popular TV shows, including “Hunter” and “The A-Team.” His directing career further demonstrated his versatility and deep understanding of the entertainment industry.

James Darren's passing is a significant loss to Hollywood, as he was not only a beloved figure from the classic era of cinema and television but also a versatile performer who could effortlessly shift between acting, singing, and directing. 

His contributions to the arts have left a lasting legacy, and he will be remembered fondly by generations of fans who grew up with his movies, music, and television performances.