Does a career spanning three decades, encompassing over a hundred film and television roles, numerous commercials, and a vibrant presence in the world of Hallmark and Lifetime movies, truly represent a remarkable journey? The sheer longevity and versatility of Barbara Niven's career definitively answer that question with a resounding "yes."
From her early days, Niven has consistently demonstrated a talent for captivating audiences across a wide spectrum of genres. Her dedication to her craft has not only cemented her status as a familiar face on screens both big and small but has also made her a recognizable name within the industry.
Full Name: | Barbara Lee Niven (ne Bucholz) |
Date of Birth: | February 26, 1953 |
Place of Birth: | Portland, Oregon, USA |
Nationality: | American, Canadian |
Occupation: | Actress, Writer, Producer, Motivational Speaker, Media Trainer, Animal Rights Activist |
Known For: | Hallmark and Lifetime Movies, "Pensacola: Wings of Gold," "One Life to Live," "Cedar Cove," "Chesapeake Shores," "A Perfect Ending" |
Spouse: | David Niven Jr. |
Children: | Jessica Sue Garrison |
Website: | IMDb |
Born in Portland, Oregon, Barbara Niven's journey into the entertainment world began with a strong foundation. While specific details about her early life are kept private, her success speaks volumes about her dedication and work ethic. Niven's career took off in the 1980s and she has since remained a prominent figure in the industry.
Niven's filmography is a testament to her adaptability. She is perhaps best recognized for her roles in the heartwarming world of Hallmark and Lifetime movies. Her performances often bring warmth, relatability, and a sense of genuine emotion to the screen. She is known for her role in movies like, A perfect ending , The rat pack and television roles in Pensacola: Wings of gold, one life to live, cedar cave, and Chesapeake shores.
Beyond her Hallmark and Lifetime roles, Niven has also graced the small screen in a variety of television series. The syndicated drama series Pensacola: Wings of Gold provided her with a significant platform. The world of soap operas also welcomed her, with recurring roles in The Bold and the Beautiful as Brenda Dickerson and One Life to Live as Liz Coleman Reynolds. This experience allowed her to hone her acting skills in front of a live audience and to build a devoted fan base.
Niven's versatility extends to independent films as well. In 2012, she played Rebecca Westridge in the independent film A Perfect Ending. This performance showcased her ability to take on diverse and complex roles. One notable review from Sharry Marcus of A Perfect Ending called the film, "Wonderfully written, exquisitely acted, perfectly cast and brilliantly directed".
Her resume includes appearances in numerous other series, including ER, Cold Case, NCIS, Charmed, Eli Stone, Pacific Palisades, and Silk Stalkings. These roles highlight her capacity to navigate various genres and portray a range of characters.
Off-screen, Niven is known for her work as a motivational speaker, media trainer, and animal rights activist. This demonstrates her commitment to using her platform to advocate for causes she believes in. Niven's ability to connect with audiences on a personal level has made her a sought-after speaker, offering advice and inspiration to others.
On January 14, 2017, Niven attended the Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Winter 2017 TCA Press Tour at the Tournament House. Her presence at industry events such as this reflects her continued involvement and influence within the entertainment community. In July 27, 2016 in Los Angeles, California she was photographed at the Hallmark Channel Summer 2016 TCA's.
Her dedication and impact on the acting field were further exemplified when she starred opposite Williams in the Hallmark Channel series, and paid tribute to the actor following his death. This demonstrates the close bonds that she cultivated in her work as a prominent Hallmark star.
Niven's personal life, like that of many public figures, is largely kept private. This allows her to maintain a healthy balance between her professional and personal endeavors. While details about her current relationships are not always publicly available, her focus on a strong professional identity remains constant.
Her career has encompassed over 100 film and TV roles, with over 2500 TV & radio commercials, and hosting many shows and infomercials. Niven says she is blessed and grateful to make a living doing what she loves.
More recently, Niven has experienced a personal loss, mourning an old friend, an experience she shared with her followers on social media. This demonstrates her ability to connect with her audience on a deeper, more human level. Such a demonstration of vulnerability reminds viewers that they can find solace and connection with one another.
Barbara Niven's story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and a genuine passion for her craft. From her early work to her current projects, she has consistently delivered performances that resonate with audiences, proving that she is an enduring presence in the ever-evolving world of film and television.
Barbara Niven's journey is a testament to the enduring power of hard work, dedication, and a genuine love for the craft. Her story is an inspiration to aspiring actors and a reminder that with talent and perseverance, anything is possible.


