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Patrick AllenBritish film actor who also worked in television and as a voice actor
Date of Birth: 17.03.1927
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
Biography of Patrick Allen
Patrick Allen was a British film actor who also worked in television and as a voice actor, with over 130 credits to his name. He was born on March 17, 1927, in Nyasaland, a small state in southeastern Africa that was a British colony until 1964. Today it is known as the Republic of Malawi. His father was a tobacco farmer, and during World War II, Patrick was evacuated to Canada while his parents returned to their homeland. He remained in Canada until completing his education at McGill University in Montreal. Before returning to England, Allen worked as a radio host and appeared on television in several teleplays and documentaries.
Acting Career
In 1953, Allen made his film debut playing a detective in Alfred Hitchcock's "Dial M for Murder." He went on to have a prolific career, taking on a variety of character roles in numerous films, including the adventure-horror film "Captain Clegg" (1962), the action film "The Wild Geese" (1978), the adventure film "The Sea Wolves" (1980), and the action film "Who Dares Wins" (1982). Allen also played the lead roles in the British adventure series "Crane" (1963-1965) and "Brett" (1971). He portrayed Colonel Sebastian Moran, the deputy of Moriarty, in "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" and "The Return of Sherlock Holmes." Allen was a regular presence on British television, appearing in popular series such as "The Baron," "The Champions," and "UFO."
Voice Acting and Other Endeavors
Allen's distinctive authoritative voice became well-known throughout the UK, even to those who were unfamiliar with his acting career. In the 1970s, he provided the voiceover for a series of educational films on civil defense, which included some of his lines being featured in the song "Two Tribes" by the band Frankie Goes to Hollywood. He also lent his voice to comedy series by Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer, as well as numerous commercials, including those for "Barratt Developments" and the family car "Ford Sierra." Allen's work as a voice actor inspired him to start his own successful recording studio.
Later Years and Legacy
In the 1980s, Allen narrated the early episodes of the sitcom "Blackadder" and portrayed Phillip of Burgundy in the first season's final episode. Additionally, he voiced Captain Star in the children's animated series "TUGS." In 2005, Allen became the voice of the British television channel E4, a role later taken over by Peter Dickson after his death.
Patrick Allen passed away in London on July 28, 2006, at the age of 79. He was survived by his wife, television actress Sarah Lawson, whom he married in 1960, and his two sons, Stephen and Stuart. Allen's legacy as a versatile actor and iconic voice will forever be remembered in the entertainment industry.
