James Darren

James Darren, a film actor, TV star, singer, director, and spaghetti sauce entrepreneur, was born James Ercolani in Philadelphia. A chance introduction to the legendary producer/talent executive, Joyce Selznick, led to Darren's signing a seven year contract with Columbia Pictures. During his Columbia years, Darren made 19 films including Gidget. Darren was rich-kid surfer, Moondoggie, and returned to star in two of the sequels before going on to other projects.

In Gidget, Darren sang two songs: the title tune and There's No Such Thing As the Next Best Thing To Love. Almost without intending to, he became a recording star. In the early 60's his hits included Goodbye Cruel World, which became number one in the country, as well as Angel Face, Conscience, and Her Royal Majesty - every one of which made the Top Ten List.

Darren continued to make films and in 1966 starred in his first TV series, The Time Tunnel. When The Time Tunnel ended, Darren decided to concentrate on his singing. He teamed with comedian Buddy Hackett for what would become a ten year partnership touring the country. In 1983, Darren was offered the role of Jim Corrigan on the ABC-TV series T.J. Hooker. He directed the final episode of T.J. Hooker which led to multiple TV directing jobs including Hunter, The A-Team, Hardball, and Police Story.

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