Barbara Dana was a talented actress who carved out a successful career in Hollywood, making her mark across both film and television over several decades. Barbara Dana first gained attention through her appearances in a number of notable films during the late 1960s. She played roles in the Alan Arkin-led comedic adaptation Inspector Clouseau (1968), the crime thriller P.J. (1968), and the heartfelt drama Popi (1969), also starring Arkin. As her career progressed, Barbara Dana expanded into television, appearing in the ABC TV movie Daughter of the Mind (1969–1970).

She continued to build momentum with a role in the PBS television special June Moon (1973–74), showcasing her versatility as a performer. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Barbara Dana remained active in the film industry, taking on memorable parts in comedies like Fire Sale (1977) and the cult classic The In-Laws (1979), once again sharing the screen with Alan Arkin. Around the same time, she appeared in the NBC TV movie The Other Side of Hell (1977–78), further demonstrating her range.

In addition to her film work, Barbara Dana contributed to several acclaimed television specials aired on PBS, including A Matter of Principle (1984–85) and Necessary Parties (1988–89). These roles helped solidify her reputation as a dependable and expressive presence on screen. Barbara Dana’s most recent performance came in the 2007 film Raising Flagg, proving her enduring passion for acting. Notably, Barbara Dana was married to the legendary actor and director Alan Arkin, a personal and professional connection that added another layer to her storied life in the entertainment world.