114499271
Darren became famous after his role as “Moondoggie” in the hit movie “Gidget” in 1959. Born as James Ercolani in Lower Moyamensing, he grew up on the 2400 block of South 10th Street and began taking acting lessons in his late-teens. He earned his big break when Columbia Pictures inked his movie deal and also launched his music career when he sang the title song and “There’s No Such Thing as the Next Best Thing to Love” in his debut feature.
He went on to appear on the big screen 18 more times, including “Gidget” sequels and “The Guns of Navarone,” in addition to various small-screen appearances with “T.J. Hooker” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.”
During his time on “T.J.,” he picked up directing, a skill he has contributed to other hit shows, such as “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Melrose Place.”
He continued his success in the music business with “Goodbye Cruel World,” a No. 1 hit that received a Grammy nomination, as well as “Angel Face” and “Her Royal Majesty.”
Contact Managing Editor Amanda L. Snyder at asnyder@southphillyreview.com or ext. 117.
The South Philadelphia Walk of Fame 2013 inductees
/ Marian Anderson / Paul Arizin / Frankie Avalon / Joey Bishop / John Chaney /
/ James Darren / Angelo Dundee / Fabian / Larry Fine / Eddie Fisher /
/ Kenny Gamble / Frank Gasparro / Joey Giardello / Stephen Girard / Sherman Hemsley /
/ Irvin Kershner / Jack Klugman / Eddie Lang / Mario Lanza / Rob McElhenney /
/ Joe Medeiros / Earl "The Pearl" Monroe / Nathan Morris / Michelle Nader / Gene Perret /
/ Frank Rizzo / Bobby Rydell / Lisa Scottoline / Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter / Anna Verna /
114498661
114499281
