The left and right side linkages of a mechanism for a reclining chair are provided with respective pantographic linkage systems. An actuator link is provided for each, which causes the headrest which is mounted to the upper end of each such linkage system to rotate relatively forwards by about 90 degrees as the backrest is reclined as the chair goes from its fully erect to its TV and fully reclined positions. The mechanism provides low back, wall-saver operation for the chair reclining function without necessitating a thick or oddly appearing style.