Krista Allen made her August 1996 debut on "Days of Our Lives" as the sweet and endearing Billie Reed. Since "Days" has been a television staple in the Allen household since it debuted 31 years ago, Allen felt familiar with the surrounding from day one. Her favorite character on the show? Billie, of course, "because she seems so normal and she really is a lot like me," says Allen.

Originally from Ventura, California, Allen spent years in Texas before settling in Los Angeles. Although she set her sights on acting at an early age, (going as far as pretending to make Oscar and Emmy acceptance speeches), Allen was very shy and afraid to get in front of people. An Education major at the University of Texas, she interned as a kindergarten teacher before she decided to pursue her dream of an acting career.

After serving as a national spokesmodel for Budweiser and Montgomery Ward, gracing numerous billboards and posters, Allen embarked on a television career without any formal training: "The red light went on and I froze," says Allen, "I was like a deer in the headlights." She soon regained her confidence and landed the role of Shelly on "Bold and the Beautiful." In addition, she made guest appearances on numerous episodics, including "Silk Stalkings" and "Married With Children." Just days before she became "Billie Reed," Allen completed the feature film "Liar, Liar" with Jim Carrey.

When not in front of the camera, Allen enjoys gardening, cooking and painting. She loves and dedicates her life to helping children and animals.