Alun Owen

Alun Owen (24 November 1925 – 6 December 1994) was a Welsh television screenwriter, playwright, and novelist. He is best known for his work in television, particularly for his contributions to the development of British television drama in the 1960s.

Owen was born in Liverpool, England, to Welsh parents. His background and connection to both Welsh and Liverpudlian culture often informed his work. He served in the Merchant Navy during World War II, an experience that would later influence his writing.

Owen's breakthrough came with the television play No Trams to Lime Street (1959), which explored themes of working-class life in Liverpool. He wrote extensively for the BBC's Armchair Theatre anthology series, contributing plays such as Lena, Oh My Lena! (1960) and The Rough and Ready Lot (1961).

In 1964, Owen wrote the screenplay for the Beatles' film A Hard Day's Night. His naturalistic dialogue and portrayal of the band contributed significantly to the film's success and its lasting cultural impact.

Owen continued to write for television and the stage throughout his career. His other notable works include the plays Progress to the Park (1959) and Maggie May (1964) (musical book) and television series like Shelley (1979). He often focused on working-class characters and their struggles, and his writing was characterized by its authenticity, humor, and social commentary. He died in 1994, leaving behind a significant body of work that helped to shape British television drama.