Allen Mark

Mark S. Allen is an American producer and television personality with eight Emmy Awards to his name. His career spans radio, television, and film production. In radio, he began in Dallas and Sacramento, undertaking a notable fundraising stunt for the Muscular Dystrophy Association where he lived on a billboard for a month, surviving a serious fall.

On television, Allen hosted various programs, including Comedy Central's 'Short Attention Span Theater' and created the movie review show 'Mark at the Movies,' which earned him Emmy Awards. He has also produced and hosted other syndicated shows like 'Extra Butter TV.' His film work includes producing and co-writing features such as 'APParition' and the 'FearPHarm' franchise, as well as directing 'Amy's F- It List.' Allen also co-founded a chain of axe-throwing bars and authored a book about Sacramento.

Allen's career has not been without controversy, including multiple DUI arrests, for which he has publicly addressed and promoted sober driving. He has also faced criticism for his interview techniques with celebrities, leading to apologies from his employers on occasion. Despite these challenges, he has received accolades such as the California Film Commission Person of the Year and the Children's Miracle Network 'Person Of The Year' award.

Mark S. Allen launched his broadcasting career in radio, working in Dallas, Sacramento, and Southern California. During his time in Sacramento, he participated in a month-long, 24/7 live-in billboard stunt to raise funds and awareness for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Tragically, on the third night, he fell from the billboard, sustaining broken bones in both legs and feet, along with a concussion. Despite his injuries, he returned to the billboard to complete the fundraiser after receiving medical attention. Allen later returned to radio in Sacramento in 2011. His television career began with hosting duties on youth-oriented programs and later included replacing Jon Stewart on Comedy Central's 'Short Attention Span Theater.' He also served as an entertainment anchor and film critic for 'Good Day Sacramento' for two decades, even undertaking a challenging live television swim from the Bay Bridge to the Golden Gate Bridge. His self-created movie review show, 'Mark at the Movies,' garnered multiple Emmy Awards, and he continued to produce and host other successful television programs like 'Extra Butter TV,' which achieved international syndication.

Beyond his extensive work in television and radio, Mark S. Allen has established a presence in film production and authorship. He has produced and co-written several feature films, including 'APParition,' starring Mena Suvari and Kevin Pollak, and titles within the 'FearPHarm' franchise. Allen also contributed to 'Notorious Nick,' a film based on the life of MMA champion Nick Newell, and co-wrote and co-directed the thriller '616 Wilford Lane.' His directorial work also includes 'Amy's F- It List,' which was recognized at the Cannes World Film Festival. In recognition of his contributions to the film industry, he was named the California Film Commission Person of the Year in 2017. In addition to his media work, Allen is a published author. His book, '100 Things To Do Before You Die in Sacramento,' was released by Reedy Press, with a second volume following later. He also holds a Guinness World Record for jalapeño pepper eating.

Mark S. Allen's entrepreneurial ventures extend beyond the entertainment industry. In 2018, he co-founded and continues to co-own The Smart Axe Co., which operates as the largest chain of World Axe League certified axe bars in California. This venture highlights a diversification of his professional interests. Allen has also been recognized for his community involvement and fundraising efforts. He received the Children's Miracle Network 'Person Of The Year' award in 2017 for his sustained work in raising funds for children's hospitals. His ability to engage with high-profile individuals is further demonstrated by his invitations to host celebrity movie screening Q&As at Facebook's campus as a guest of Mark Zuckerberg, and he has also hosted similar events for California governors. These activities underscore a commitment to both business and charitable endeavors.