Born Jacqueline Presson in Fort Worth, TX. Highly skilled scenarist (especially with adaptations) who in the 1960s and 70s turned out a number of superior scripts with strong, female protagonists, often winning awards for the actresses portraying them. A successful playwright (The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, 40 Carats, Tru), Allen created and was executive producer on the well regarded television series, "Family" (1976-80) and from 1980 also produced or served as executive producer on several interesting features (PRINCE OF THE CITY, 1981, DEATHTRAP, 1982). Married to producer Lewis M. Allen from 1955 until his death in 2003. Other notable (non-nominated) credits include WIVES AND LOVERS (1963, from her play The First Wife), MARNIE (1964), FUNNY LADY (1975) and JUST TELL ME WHAT YOU WANT (1980, from her novel).  Nominated for Writing (Best Screenplay based on material from another medium) 1972: CABARET  Nominated for Writing (Best Screenplay based on material from another medium) 1981: PRINCE OF THE CITY (w. Sidney Lumet) 2 nominations