Sian Barbara Allen was a Golden Globe nominated actress who was widely acclaimed for her television roles in the 1970s and 1980s, including memorable performances in “The Waltons” and “The Los Angeles Lawyer.” She passed away peacefully on Monday, March 31st at the age of 78.
Her final moments were spent in Chapel Hill, N.C., where she succumbed to Alzheimer’s Disease, a poignant end to a life rich in both artistic expression and passionate political activism.
1.From the outset, her acting prowess quickly caught the industry’s attention, leading her to become one of the last contract players at Universal Studios, a traditional pathway into the entertainment world that was rapidly evolving.
Ms. Allen made her initial on-screen appearance in the television series *O’Hara, U.S. Treasury* in 1971. This role marked the beginning of a prolific period in her career, primarily in television.
2.She established herself as an incredibly versatile and prolific presence on television throughout the 1970s and 1980s, gracing a multitude of popular series with her memorable performances.
Her impressive resume includes guest spots on iconic shows such as the enduring Western *Gunsmoke*, the pioneering police drama *Cagney & Lacey*, and even the beloved superhero series *The Incredible Hulk*.
3.Her television credits also included appearances on the classic detective series *Hawaii Five-0* and *Columbo*. She was also featured in episodes of *The Rockford Files*.
Adding another dimension to her career, Sian Barbara Allen made history on the crime drama *Baretta* in 1978, becoming the first woman to pen a script for the show, showcasing a remarkable talent beyond just acting.
4.While she was a consistent presence on television, Ms. Allen also built a notable film career. She shared the screen with celebrated actors in a variety of movies.
In 1972, she starred in *You’ll Like My Mother*, a film that also featured Patty Duke, Rosemary Murphy, and Richard Thomas. This role proved to be particularly significant in her career.
5.In 1973, her compelling performance in the film *You’ll Like My Mother* earned her a prestigious Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising New Actress, a significant early recognition of her undeniable talent.
The following year, 1973, proved to be another notable milestone as she shared the screen with the legendary Bette Davis in the suspenseful thriller *Scream, Pretty Peggy*, further solidifying her presence in film.
Her filmography continued to expand with diverse roles, including a memorable turn in the 1974 Western *Billy Two Hats*, where she starred alongside the iconic Gregory Peck and Jack Warden, and an appearance in *The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case* opposite Anthony Hopkins.
Throughout her outstanding career in the entertainment industry, Ms. Allen has consistently portrayed characters with profound connections to the audience, often embodying a special strength and resilience that has become a hallmark of her unforgettable performances.
