James Darren, the actor and former teen heartthrob renowned for his part in the “Gidget” series, has reportedly passed away at the age of 88.

His son, Jim Moret, confirmed to Variety and The Hollywood Reporter that Darren died on Monday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. As reported by THR, he was hospitalized for an aortic valve replacement procedure but was later found to be “too weak” to undergo the surgery.

“He was a wonderful man and extremely gifted,” Moret shared with Variety. “He always seemed young at heart.”

Singer and songwriter Nancy Sinatra also honored Darren in a heartfelt post on X.

“One of my closest friends throughout my life has left us,” Sinatra shared along with a collection of photos featuring them together. “I wish him a swift and beautiful journey through the universe and beyond. Godspeed, dear Jimmy. My heart aches, but I hold a lot of love for Evy, Christian, Anthony, and Jimmy Jr.”

YSL News has attempted to contact Darren’s and Moret’s representatives for additional comments.

Darren portrayed Jeffrey Matthews, nicknamed Moondoggie, in the iconic surfing romantic comedy “Gidget,” which premiered in 1959, starring alongside Sandra Dee and Cliff Robertson. He reprised his character in the follow-ups “Gidget Goes Hawaiian” (1961) and “Gidget Goes to Rome” (1963).

In addition to his film career, Darren had a significant presence on television, with notable roles in the crime series “T.J. Hooker” and the sci-fi series “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.”

Beyond acting, the Philadelphia native was also a celebrated pop singer during his youth, releasing several singles throughout the late 1950s and 1960s, including the popular song “Goodbye Cruel World” in 1961.

Darren is survived by his wife, Evy Norlund, and his sons, Moret, Christian Darren, and Anthony Darren.