Alden discovered his passion for acting while attending Texas Christian University, where he participated in on-campus theater productions. After serving in the United States Army during World War II, he pursued a career in acting, landing his first television appearance in 1957 on The 20th Century Fox Hour.

Throughout his career, Alden amassed an impressive filmography, appearing in dozens of television shows and films. He became known for a wide range of roles, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. Some of his most notable performances include Kranix and Arblus in The Transformers: The Movie (1986), Dr. Linstrom in I Never Promised You a Rose Garden (1977), the voice of Kay in The Sword in the Stone (1963), and guest appearances in popular shows like Gunsmoke, Perry Mason, and The Twilight Zone.

Alden continued to work steadily until his retirement in 2006. He left behind a legacy of diverse and memorable performances, proving his talent as a true character actor.