Sian Barbara Allen, a talented individual born Barbara Susan Pokrass, made her grand entrance into the world on July 12, 1946, in the city of Reading, Pennsylvania, a place that would eventually shape her artistic inclinations.
As a young individual, Sian Barbara Allen's fascination with the world of performing arts began to take center stage, prompting her to enroll in the esteemed Pasadena Playhouse from 1964 to 1965, a prestigious institution renowned for fostering the growth and development of aspiring thespians.
Allen's emergence as a prominent figure in the film industry was marked by her pivotal role in 1972, where she brought depth and nuance to the character of Kathleen, a person with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in the cinematic production "You'll Like My Mother". This thought-provoking film featured an impressive ensemble cast, including the talented Patty Duke, Rosemary Murphy, and Richard Thomas, each of whom brought their unique skills and experience to their respective roles.
As Allen's portrayal of Kathleen resonated with audiences and critics alike, she was subsequently recognized for her outstanding performance with a prestigious Golden Globe nomination in 1973, specifically in the category of "Most Promising New Actress". This recognition served as a testament to her burgeoning talent and marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career in the entertainment industry.
The filming of the 1971 drama "You'll Like My Mother" served as a pivotal moment in the life of actress Clara Allen, as it was during this time that she crossed paths with Richard Thomas, the talented thespian who would go on to portray her character's troubled sibling. This serendipitous encounter blossomed into a romantic relationship that would span several years, with Allen and Thomas's love story unfolding against the backdrop of the 1970s. Thomas, who had already begun to make a name for himself in the entertainment industry, would go on to secure a starring role as John-Boy in the beloved television series "The Waltons," which premiered in 1972. As the show's writers sought to craft a romantic storyline for John-Boy in the initial season, Thomas drew inspiration from his real-life relationship with Allen, suggesting that she take on the role of his on-screen love interest.
Allen's television credits include a notable appearance in the episode "The Love Story" which aired in 1973, alongside numerous other talented actors and actresses. This particular episode played a significant role in Thomas's career, as it earned him an Emmy award in the same year. Additionally, Allen starred as the lead character Peggy Johns in the 1973 television movie "Scream, Pretty Peggy," which boasted an impressive cast featuring the renowned Bette Davis and Ted Bessell.
Throughout the 1970s, Allen's professional career as a television actress remained remarkably consistent, with a diverse array of roles across numerous popular shows. Some of her notable appearances during this period include a guest spot on the critically acclaimed detective series "The Rockford Files" in 1974, as well as recurring roles on the classic crime dramas "Ironside" and "Gunsmoke", which debuted in 1967 and 1955, respectively. Additionally, Allen's talents extended beyond acting, as she penned a script for an episode of the fourth season of the gritty cop show "Baretta", which premiered in 1975.
Noted actress, following a remarkable career on the big screen, Allen embarked on a new chapter in her life by exchanging vows and welcoming a daughter, subsequently bringing an end to her illustrious acting career. As she transitioned into a new phase of her life, Allen redirected her boundless creative energy towards the world of writing, leveraging her expertise to craft captivating stories. Interestingly, Allen is also the esteemed older sister of Meg Pokrass, a celebrated author, editor, and educator renowned for her exceptional skills in the realm of flash-fiction. Currently, Allen resides in the picturesque city of Portland, Oregon, where she continues to nurture her creative spirit, pouring her heart and soul into her writing endeavors.
