A wall-proximity reclining seating unit includes: a frame having a back member and a pair of arms; a backrest; a seat; a footrest; a reclining mechanism connected between the frame, backrest, seat, and footrest, the reclining mechanism configured to move the seating unit between: (a) an upright position, in which the footrest is retracted below a forward portion of the seat; (b) a TV position, in which the backrest substantially maintains its angle, the seat substantially maintains its angle, and the first footrest is disposed in front of the seat; and (c) a fully reclined position, in which the backrest is disposed at a shallower angle, the footrest remains positioned in front of the seat, and the seat is moved forward of its position in the TV position; and a linear actuator comprising an energizing unit, a rail, and a carriage connected with the reclining mechanism.