Sian Barbara Allen, a talented actor known for her impressive television roles and her lead role in the film “Scream, Pretty Peggy” alongside Hollywood legend Bette Davis, passed away on Monday in Chapel Hill, N.C. The cause of her death was confirmed to be Alzheimer’s disease.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Allen graced the small screen with her presence in popular TV shows such as “The Waltons,” “Columbo,” “The Rockford Files,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “Gunsmoke,” “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” and “The Incredible Hulk.” She also showcased her writing skills by penning the episode “Just for Laughs” for the show “Baretta” in its fourth season.
In her film career, Allen shared the screen with renowned actors like Patty Duke, Rosemary Murphy, Richard Thomas, Gregory Peck, Jack Warden, and Anthony Hopkins. Some of her notable films include “You’ll Like My Mother” (1972), “Scream, Pretty Peggy” (1973), “Billy Two Hats” (1974), and “The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case” (1976). Her outstanding performance in “You’ll Like My Mother” earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising New Actress in 1973.
Allen kickstarted her acting journey after securing a scholarship to the Pasadena Playhouse. She honed her craft under the guidance of Peggy Feury and was signed as one of Universal Studios’ last contract players. Her first on-screen credit came with the series “O’Hara, U.S. Treasury” in 1971.
After her final on-screen appearance in “L.A. Law” Season 4 (1990), Allen chose to step away from the spotlight and focus on her interests in politics, family, and creative writing.
The talented actor is survived by her daughter, Emily Fonseca, her sisters Hannah Davie and Meg Pokrass, her nephew Miles Bond, cousins Marcy, Mike, and Mark Reuben, and grandson Arlo Fonseca. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the AuthoraCare Collective Hospice of Burlington.
Sian Barbara Allen’s legacy in the entertainment industry will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers. Her contributions to television and film will always be remembered and cherished by fans around the world.
