Nobody is really sure of Darren's origins. It rose to popularity in the 20th century seemingly out of nowhere. It may be a form of Darryl, influenced by rhyming names like Aaron. It gained popularity in the 1950s with the rise to fame of American actor Darren McGavin (born William Lyle Richardson 1922-2006). Its use was also influenced by crooner Bobby Darin (born Walden Robert Cassotto 1936-1973) and the character of Darrin Stephens from the television program Bewitched which ran from 1964-1972.See Also: Daron