Sian Barbara Allen, a Golden Globe-nominated actress recognized for her roles in television series such as “The Waltons” and “L.A. Law,” passed away Monday at the age of 78 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Alzheimer’s disease was identified as the cause.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Allen developed a substantial television career, appearing in a range of successful shows, including “Gunsmoke,” “Cagney & Lacey,” “The Incredible Hulk,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “Columbo,” and “The Rockford Files.” She expanded her career beyond acting by becoming the first woman to write a script for the television series “Baretta” in 1978.
Born on July 12, 1946, in Reading, Pennsylvania, Allen was raised by her mother and grandmother. After high school, she earned a scholarship to the Pasadena Playhouse, beginning her acting journey. She studied under the renowned acting teacher Peggy Feury in the Journeyman program at the Mark Taper Forum before becoming one of the last contract players at Universal Studios.
Allen gained attention with her role in the 1972 film “You’ll Like My Mother,” acting alongside Patty Duke, Rosemary Murphy, and Richard Thomas. Her performance led to a Golden Globe nomination for most promising new actress in 1973. During filming, she began a relationship with co-star Richard Thomas, known for his portrayal of John-Boy Walton in “The Waltons.” In 1973, Allen appeared in two episodes of the series as John-Boy’s love interest, Jenny Pendleton.
After her success in “You’ll Like My Mother,” Allen co-starred with Bette Davis in the thriller “Scream, Pretty Peggy.” Her filmography also includes the Western “Billy Two Hats,” where she acted opposite Gregory Peck and Jack Warden, and “The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case,” featuring Anthony Hopkins.
“Sian was most often cast in roles in which her characters showed great vulnerability and uncommon empathy, which won her a legion of fans all over the world,” her obituary states. Allen’s theater work was significant, with one of her favorite roles being Emily Webb in “Our Town” at the Williamstown Theater Festival in 1976. She named her daughter Emily in honor of this role.
Receiving the Key to the City of Reading was a significant achievement for Allen. After her final on-screen appearance in “L.A. Law” in 1990, she left Hollywood to focus on politics and her family. Alongside her then-husband, Peter Gelblum, and their daughter, Emily, she volunteered in Jackie Goldberg’s 1993 Los Angeles city council campaign. Her family highlighted her as a “staunch supporter of Cesar Chavez and the United Farm Workers and never crossed a picket line in her entire life.”
Apart from acting and political activism, Allen was recognized as a “remarkable poet” who left behind “boxes of writing.” Her daughter described her as having a deep interest in literature, music, and comfort foods.
Allen is survived by her daughter Emily Fonseca, two sisters, a nephew, her ex-husband Peter Gelblum, several cousins, and her grandson Arlo Fonseca, “who made her laugh more than anyone could dream.” Her daughter has asked for donations to be made to the AuthoraCare Collective Hospice of Burlington or local organizations fighting oppression in Allen’s name.
Allen’s legacy goes beyond her screen performances. Even after stepping away from public life, she remained dedicated to social issues and creative writing. Her work in television and film during the 1970s and 1980s continues to be part of the American entertainment landscape, especially her memorable role in “The Waltons,” which retains a loyal fanbase.
Allen’s impact on television history includes her performances and her pioneering work as a female television writer at a time when the industry was largely male. Her script for “Baretta” marked a significant advancement for women in television production in the 1970s.
Her passing signifies the conclusion of a life devoted to artistic expression and social justice, leaving behind a body of work that spans several decades of American television and film.
