HookerandThe Time Tunnel, died Monday in Los Angeles.
“Fortunately, he was not in any pain,” Moret said.
“It was a peaceful passing.
James Darren.Arun Nevader/WireImage
His family got to express love for him and vice versa.”
The actor returned to the hospital on Sunday.
Moret said he was proud of his father’s long career as both a teen idol and singer.
“He connected with so many people over Moondoggie,” said Moret of his father’s celebratedGidgetcharacter.
“I remember telling him what a gift it was.”
It was great to watch," he said.
“He had the swagger, voice, talent, and charm.
Their grandfather was cool.
InGidget, he starred alongside Sandra Dee and Cliff Robertson, and played the dreamy surfer Moondoggie.
3 on theBillboard Hot 100in 1961.
Other hits Darren recorded included “Her Royal Majesty” (at No.
6 on theBillboard Hot 100in 1962) and “Conscience” (at No.
11, also in 1962).
He continued to sing throughout his career, releasing at least 14 albums and several more compilations.
In later years, he played Vic Fontaine inStar Trek: Deep Space Nineand Tony Marlin inMelrose Place.
Darren was not just a singer and actor, however.
He was also the godfather of A.J.
Lambert, Nancy Sinatra’s daughter.
Godfather to my daughter, AJ.
Wishing him a fast & beautiful journey through the Universe & beyond.
Godspeed, sweet Jimmy.
Thank you so much for your kind and loving words,” Jim Moretwrote in responseto Sinatra’s tribute.
Additional reporting by Tiffany Kelly.
