Mark Harmon recently paid heartfelt tribute to his friend and mentor, James Darren. Darren, best known for his iconic roles in Gidget and The Time Tunnel, also directed several episodes of NCIS, where his calm presence and expertise left a lasting impact on Harmon.
Their relationship, which began on the set of NCIS, quickly blossomed into a deep and enduring friendship. Harmon admired Darren’s unique ability to maintain a balance between seeing the bigger picture and focusing on the finer details. He also deeply appreciated the personal advice Darren offered, particularly when it came to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Harmon was especially struck by Darren’s humility. Despite his long-standing success in Hollywood, Darren remained approachable and genuine—qualities that made him stand out in an industry often dominated by ego.
Darren’s versatility further earned Harmon’s respect. From his days as a teen idol and singer to his later career as a respected director, Darren’s journey showcased his immense talent. Harmon described him as a “true renaissance man.”
In his tribute, Harmon expressed profound gratitude for Darren’s friendship and guidance. He acknowledged the significant impact Darren has had on his life and thanked him for being a constant source of support and inspiration.
