Mark Harmon recently paid tribute to his friend and mentor, James Darren. Darren, known for his roles in Gidget and The Time Tunnel, directed several episodes of NCIS. Harmon appreciated Darren’s calm presence and expertise, which left a lasting impression on him.
Their relationship began on the set of NCIS and quickly turned into a strong friendship. Harmon valued Darren’s ability to balance the big picture with attention to detail. He also cherished the personal advice Darren offered, especially about maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Harmon was particularly impressed by Darren’s humility. Despite his success in Hollywood, Darren remained approachable and genuine. These qualities made him stand out in an industry often filled with ego.
Darren’s versatility also earned Harmon’s admiration. From his days as a teen idol and singer to becoming a respected director, Darren’s career showcased his immense talent. Harmon described him as a “true renaissance man.”
In his tribute, Harmon expressed deep 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.