ALLAN HUNT BIOGRAPHY

Multi-talented Allan Hunt has acting in his blood, for his Aunt is none other than Marsha Hunt famous for roles in many major motion pictures of the forties and fifties, including PRIDE AND PREJUDICE.

Probably best known for his portrayal of Stu Riley in VOYAGE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA, Allan has a wealth of acting and directorial credits to his name including movies HERBIE GOES BANANAS and FREAKY FRIDAY. Trained at the Pasadena Playhouse (where many other much loved Irwin Allen actors and guests also trained), American Conservatory Theatre, Seattle Repertory, and UCLA (in journalism) amongst others, Allan started acting whilst a youngster, most prominently appearing regularly as Shelly Fabares' boyfriend in the series THE DONNA REED SHOW.

On stage, Allan has appeared in PLEASURE OF HIS COMPANY, YOUR OWN THING, OUR TOWN, RICHARD II, FORTY CARATS, and EVERYBODY'S GIRL.

Allan's memory of VOYAGE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA is very strong indeed. He remembers details that most would have forgotten after three decades, and this can be attributed to the fact that he was a young actor eagerly watching and learning about the movie industry.

During a recent chat, Allan told us that his character was originally going to be named Stu Casey, and that he was to be introduced in an episode called THE SURFERS at the beginning of season two. Allan believes the story had to be shelved due to poor weather at the time which would have plagued an essentially outdoor production. Speaking fondly of his colleagues, Allan recounts many stories of mishaps on the set, fun moments both on and off-camera, and recollections of working with Irwin Allen (see Starcon Panel).

Allan's voyage to the bottom of the sea was cut short when, at the end of season two, he enlisted in the Marine Corps in the knowledge that he might soon be drafted with heightening tension in Vietnam. Irwin Allen promised to keep the role of Stu Riley for Allan when he completed his duties in the marines. Allan served in Okinawa, Japan, and was responsible for USO shows, wrote special material and hosted and directed live stage shows. Whilst based in Okinawa, he tells us that he was amused to find THE SEAVIEW CLUB there. Naturally, he had photos taken there and sent them back to his friends on VOYAGE. By the time he left the marines, VOYAGE had finished so he wasn't able to resume the role left open for him, much to his disappointment.

Back home again, Allan continued his acting career guesting in many favourite television shows including GENERAL HOSPITAL (as Dr. Richard Clayton), QUINCY, CENTENNIAL (top-notch mini-series), THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS (a regular for 6 months. as Dr. Brent Forester) and POLICE STORY.

In more recent years, Allan has worked in many different areas including working as news anchor for CBS affiliate KGGM in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1987 (Allan anchored the nightly news and worked with a remote during election coverage), and has been spokesperson for a number of products in infomercials and commercials.

Now a highly acknowledged director (recipient of three Drama-Logue Awards) Allan recently completed a run of PIRATES OF PENZANCE and CABARET. He also instructs actors, specializing in on-camera coaching, diction, speech and script analysis.