J. T. Allen's professional journey began with a seven-year stint in the film industry, working below the line on notable projects such as The Blues Brothers, Risky Business, Sixteen Candles, and The Breakfast Club.
In 1984, he made the bold decision to relocate to Paris, where he spent time honing his craft and writing a screenplay that would eventually find its way to a friend in Hollywood. The script's success marked a significant turning point in Allen's career, paving the way for future projects.
Upon his return to Los Angeles, Allen threw himself into a variety of writing endeavors, including multiple drafts of The Lion King and The Preacher's Wife, a film that boasted an impressive cast featuring Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston.
Television also played a significant role in Allen's career, with credits including TNT's Geronimo, starring Joseph Runningfox and August Schellenberg; The Good Old Boys, featuring Sissy Spacek, Matt Damon, Frances McDormand, and Tommy Lee Jones; FX's Redemption, starring Jamie Foxx and Lynn Whitfield; and CBS's Death in Paradise, starring Tom Selleck, Viola Davis, and William Devane.
In addition to his work in film and television, Allen has also ventured into the world of literature, co-writing the indie film William with director Tim Disney. The movie, which stars Will Brittain, Maria Dizzia, and Waleed Zuaiter, showcases Allen's versatility as a writer.
Furthermore, Allen's dark comedy script, Curveball, has been adapted into the off-Broadway musical Baghdaddy, which received a New York Times Critics Pick. The musical tells the story of the Iraqi fabricator instrumental in starting the Iraq War, highlighting Allen's ability to tackle complex and thought-provoking subjects.
Moreover, Allen has also written two YA novels: Daisy and the Pirates and Daisy in Exile, demonstrating his range as a writer across multiple genres and formats.
Throughout his career, J. T. Allen has consistently demonstrated his talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
