Arlene Newman is a multifaceted American actress and producer who has left an indelible mark on the world of television and film. With a diverse range of roles under her belt, she has captivated audiences in numerous hit shows such as Lost, Marker, and Fantasy Island, as well as in movies like 10 Minutes, Poison Sky, Alice, and the faith-based films Soul Surfer, My First Miracle, and Romans Road.
Throughout her illustrious career, Arlene has had the privilege of working alongside some of the most recognizable faces in the industry, including academy award-winning actor Lou Gossett Jr, Dennis Quaid, Quinton Aaron, Kevin Sorbo, Sean Patrick Flanery, Carrie Underwood, Jimmy Borges, Stephen Baldwin, Helen Hunt, Kent Faulcon, Glenn Plummer, Jeremy Sumpter, John Philbin, Emilie De Ravin, Branscombe Richmond, Kenny Lofton, Chris Carmack, Bethany Hamilton, Matt Rauch, Jason London, Craig T. Nelson, and AnnaSophia Robb.
Arlene's personal connection to her mentor, Mr. Radio "Joe Franklin," was akin to having an adopted grandfather, and she has often spoken about the profound impact he had on her life and career.
Born and raised in New Hampshire, Arlene spent part of her childhood in Alaska and Canada, and as an adult, she has lived and worked in Italy and Japan. Her father, a bagpiper/minister, and her mother, a teacher, instilled in her a strong sense of family and community, which has stayed with her throughout her life.
Growing up in a musical Scotch/Irish home, Arlene made her first TV appearance at the tender age of 5 on the show "The Uncle Guss Show" filmed in New Hampshire. Her father's influence also led her to develop a passion for dance, and she began competing in pageants, including winning the Miss Interline pageant and Mrs. Hawaii America pageant.
As a child, Arlene discovered her love for acting through a group of kids who would get together during the summer months to write, create, and perform plays. She would often spend hours working with the children's ministry, performing in church, and taking acting classes in grammar school. Her high school drama coach and dance instructor encouraged her to pursue acting after high school, and she has since become a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Throughout her career, Arlene has drawn inspiration from her personal experiences, including working with foster children, preventing child abuse, and supporting crisis pregnancy centers. She has worked with several charities close to her heart, including serving as the spokesperson for "Prevent Child Abuse" in 2005. Her philanthropic efforts have also included working with Heart Gallery, St. Charles Home, Cards for Kids in Hospitals, and Aloha Pregnancy Center.
