Allison Smith

Allison Smith was born in New York City on December 9, 1969, and raised in Bergen County, New Jersey. Her performing career began early, with her first appearance on Broadway at the age of nine in the original production of “Evita.” This was quickly followed by her landing the title role in the Broadway musical “Annie” at the age of ten, where she became the longest-running and youngest star of a Broadway musical at that time, performing for over 1,000 shows, spanning nearly three years. Her vocal talents were showcased at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, Radio City Music Hall, and The White House, establishing her as a significant talent from a young age.

Following her Broadway success, Smith transitioned to television, notably securing a role on the CBS sitcom “Kate & Allie,” where she played Jennie Lowell for six seasons (1984-1989). This period further solidified her presence in the entertainment industry as she honed her acting skills in a regular television series. She later gained recurring recognition for her role as Mallory O’Brien, the chief of staff’s daughter and Sam Seaborn’s love interest (played by Rob Lowe), in all seven seasons of NBC’s “The West Wing” (1999–2006).

Smith’s career has also included diverse roles in both film and theater. She portrayed the real-life Charles Manson murderess Patricia Krenwinkel in the CBS miniseries “Helter Skelter” (2004) and starred in the pilot of “The Closer” (2005). Her film credits include leading roles in independent features such as “A Reason to Believe” (1995) and supporting parts in mainstream films like “Holes” (2003) and “Switchback” (1997). Her theatrical work also extends to starring in the L.A. premiere of David Mamet’s “Oleanna,” performing opposite Alan Alda in “QED” at the Mark Taper Forum, and with Randy Newman in his musical “The Education of Randy Newman,” where her vocal performance received critical acclaim. Outside of her acting, singing, and directing work, Allison Smith is also a writer.