Actress Sian Barbara Allen has died aged 78.
The star appeared in American historical drama TV series The Waltons as well as films You’ll Like My Mother and Billy Two Hats.
She died in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, on Monday, after a battle with Alzheimer’s.
Paying tribute after announcing the news of her death, her family said: ‘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.’
They added: ‘Sian’s favorite things in the world were her family, mystery books, C-SPAN, poetry, all things Ireland, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon’s Graceland album, mac and cheese, root beer floats and bacon cheeseburgers (no lettuce or tomato).
‘She lived her final year of life in North Carolina, surrounded by all of her favorite things, new friends, and more time with [her daughter] Emily than she’d had in 35 years.’
In The Waltons, Allen played Richard Thomas’ John-Boy’s love interest, who she earlier starred alongside in 1972 film You’ll Like My Mother, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination for most promising new actress.
The two were involved in a relationship for several years, with Thomas suggesting his then-girlfriend took on the role of his onscreen love interest in The Waltons during episodes in 1973.
Allen also appeared on programmes including The Rockford Files, Ironside, Bonanza and Gunsmoke.
Her final onscreen role came in an episode of LA Law, titled Whatever Happened to Hannah?, in 1990.
Following her withdrawal from public life, Allen went on to focus on politics as well as poetry.
Fans have paid tribute to her on her obituary page, with one, Eldo, writing: ‘I have often thought of Sian Barbara Allen and wondered where she went.. she made an indelible mark on my young brain watching her in various TV shows and of course , You´ll Like My Mother.
‘I was very drawn to her face, her fragility …she had that “thing” that only a few actresses have. I missed seeing her. I´m sure I have googled her many times over the years.
‘So…saddened at this news. But happy to learn she had a wonderful life past her acting career with many folks who loved her. And a beautiful daughter.’
Al added: ‘My condolences to Sian Barbara Allen’s family and friends. I am an admirer from her acting career. As a child growing up in the 1970s, I was fascinated by this charming, lovely young actress who was able to portray such fragile, delicate characters. I live in the Triangle area of NC, and am sorry I never had a chance to meet her and tell her how much I loved her performances.’
Allen is survived by her daughter, two sisters and ex-husband.
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