“Little House on the Prairie” is a cherished American TV series that aired from 1974 to 1983, based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s autobiographical books. The original cast included Michael Landon, Karen Grassle, and Melissa Gilbert.
Since then, the cast has seen significant changes, including the passing of Michael Landon, with some members continuing in the entertainment industry and others pursuing different careers.
The show’s legacy endures through its impact on popular culture and continued viewership.
Alison Arngrim in 1974


Alison Arngrim was best known for her role as Nellie Oleson from 1974 to 1983. Oleson was one of the show’s most iconic and memorable characters, known for her spoiled and often antagonistic behavior towards the Ingalls family.
Arngrim’s portrayal of Nellie earned her acclaim and recognition.
Since her time on “Little House on the Prairie,” Alison Arngrim has continued to work in the entertainment industry, primarily as a comedian and author.
Alison Arngrim in 2023
Arngrim has since used her platform to raise awareness about child abuse and advocate for child protection.
Arngrim has also written a memoir titled “Confessions of a Prairie Bitch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated,” which provides insight into her life and experiences both on and off the screen.
She remains a beloved figure among fans of the show and continues to make appearances at fan conventions and events.


Michael Landon in 1974
Michael Landon was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and is best known for his roles in popular television series such as “Bonanza,” “Little House on the Prairie,” and “Highway to Heaven.”
Landon played Charles Ingalls in “Little House on the Prairie,” which was one of his most iconic roles. He also played Joe Cartwright in “Bonanza.”
In addition to his acting career, Landon became a successful director and producer, particularly with “Little House on the Prairie” and “Highway to Heaven.”


Michael Landon in 1991
Tragically, Michael Landon passed away in 1991 at the age of 54 due to pancreatic cancer. His contributions to television and his memorable characters continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans of his work.


Karen Grassle in 1974
Karen Grassle is an American actress best known for her portrayal of Caroline Ingalls, the wife and mother in the Ingalls family, on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
The show, which aired from 1974 to 1983, was based on the autobiographical books by Laura Ingalls Wilder and depicted the challenges and triumphs of a pioneering family in the late 19th century American frontier.
Karen Grassle’s portrayal of Caroline, often referred to as “Ma” Ingalls, was a central and beloved character on the show. Her character was known for her strength, resilience, and unwavering support for her family.


Karen Grassle in 2023
After her role on “Little House on the Prairie,” Karen Grassle continued to work in the entertainment industry, primarily in television and theater. She appeared in various TV shows, films, and stage productions.
While she remained active in acting, her role as Caroline Ingalls remains one of her most enduring and iconic contributions to television.


Rachel Lindsay Greenbush in 1974
Rachel Lindsay Greenbush, born on May 16, 1960, is an American former child actress best known for her role as Carrie Ingalls, the younger daughter of Charles and Caroline Ingalls, on the television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
Rachel played this role alongside her identical twin sister, Sidney Robyn Greenbush (credited as Sidney Greenbush), who portrayed Carrie’s older sister, Mary Ingalls.
The Greenbush twins alternated in the role of Carrie Ingalls throughout the series, allowing them to share the workload and meet the labor laws regarding child actors. They became beloved figures on the show, which ran from 1974 to 1983.


Rachel Lindsay Greenbush in 2023
After “Little House on the Prairie,” Rachel Lindsay Greenbush and her sister Sidney took a step back from acting and chose to lead relatively private lives away from the entertainment industry.
They have occasionally made appearances at fan conventions and events related to the show, connecting with fans who remember them from their childhood roles on the beloved series.


Sidney Greenbush in 1974
Sidney Greenbush is best known for her role as Mary Ingalls, the older daughter of Charles and Caroline Ingalls, on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
Sidney played this role alongside her identical twin sister, Rachel Lindsay Greenbush (credited as Lindsay Greenbush), who portrayed Mary’s younger sister, Carrie Ingalls.
The Greenbush twins were a central part of the cast of “Little House on the Prairie,” which aired from 1974 to 1983. Their alternating performances as Mary and Carrie Ingalls allowed them to share the responsibilities of the role and adhere to child labor laws.
The characters they portrayed became beloved figures in the series, and their work garnered them recognition from fans of the show.


Sidney Greenbush in 2023
Following their time on “Little House on the Prairie,” Sidney Greenbush and her sister Rachel opted to step away from acting and have largely maintained private lives.
They have occasionally made appearances at events related to the show, connecting with fans who have fond memories of their performances during their childhood.


Melissa Sue Anderson in 1974
Melissa Sue Anderson is an American actress best known for her role as Mary Ingalls Kendall on the popular television series “Little House on the Prairie.” She was born on September 26, 1962, in Berkeley, California.
Melissa Sue Anderson’s portrayal of Mary Ingalls, the eldest daughter of the Ingalls family, was one of her most notable roles. She played the character with grace and charm throughout the show’s run from 1974 to 1983.
Mary Ingalls was known for her kind and responsible nature, and the character’s journey, including her struggle with blindness, was a significant storyline on the series.


Melissa Sue Anderson in 2023
After her time on “Little House on the Prairie,” Melissa Sue Anderson continued to work in the entertainment industry, taking on various television and film roles. She also won critical acclaim for her work in television movies and miniseries.
Melissa Sue Anderson’s career and her portrayal of Mary Ingalls remain an integral part of television history, and she is fondly remembered by fans of the show for her contributions to the series.


Katherine MacGregor in 1974
Katherine MacGregor was an American actress best known for her role as Harriet Oleson on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.” She was born on January 12, 1925, in Glendale, California, and passed away on November 13, 2018.
Katherine MacGregor’s portrayal of Harriet Oleson, the snobbish and often comically antagonistic owner of the town’s general store, was a central and memorable part of “Little House on the Prairie.”
Her character provided both humor and conflict on the show as she clashed with the Ingalls family and other townspeople.


Katherine MacGregor in 2018
After her time on “Little House on the Prairie,” Katherine MacGregor continued to work in the entertainment industry, primarily in television and theater. While her role as Harriet Oleson remained one of her most recognized, she had a diverse career in acting.
Katherine MacGregor’s contribution to the success of “Little House on the Prairie” and her memorable portrayal of Harriet Oleson solidified her status as a beloved figure in the world of television.
She is remembered fondly by fans of the show for her memorable performance.


Richard Bull in 1974
Richard Bull was an American actor known for his role as Nels Oleson on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
Bull’s portrayal of Nels Oleson, the mild-mannered and compassionate husband of Harriet Oleson, was a beloved character on “Little House on the Prairie.”
His character often provided a contrast to his wife’s more antagonistic and comical behavior.


Richard Bull in 2014
In addition to his work on “Little House on the Prairie,” Richard Bull had a lengthy and varied career in television and film, appearing in numerous other television shows, films, and stage productions over the years.
Richard Bull’s contributions to the entertainment industry and his memorable role as Nels Oleson continue to be appreciated by fans of “Little House on the Prairie” and the wider world of television.
He passed away on February 3, 2014.


Jonathan Gilbert in 1974
Jonathan Gilbert is an American former child actor best known for his role as Willie Oleson on the classic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
He was born on April 28, 1967, in Los Angeles, California.
In “Little House on the Prairie,” Jonathan Gilbert portrayed Willie Oleson, the mischievous and often trouble-making son of Harriet and Nels Oleson. His character’s interactions with the Ingalls family and other residents of Walnut Grove provided both humor and drama to the show.


Jonathan Gilbert in 2023
Following his time on “Little House on the Prairie,” Jonathan Gilbert decided to step away from acting and has maintained a relatively private life. He pursued education and worked in fields outside of the entertainment industry.
Despite his departure from acting, he remains a recognized figure among fans of the show, as his portrayal of Willie Oleson left a lasting impression on viewers.


Kevin Hagen in 1974
Kevin Hagen was an American actor known for his work in film and television. He had a prolific career in Hollywood, appearing in numerous TV shows and movies, but he is best remembered for his role as Dr. Hiram Baker on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
In “Little House on the Prairie,” Kevin Hagen portrayed Dr. Baker, the kind and compassionate town physician who served the residents of Walnut Grove.
His character was a beloved figure in the show, providing medical care and wisdom to the Ingalls family and other townspeople.


Kevin Hagen in 2005
Outside of his work on “Little House on the Prairie,” Kevin Hagen had a diverse acting career, appearing in various TV series and films. He was known for his versatility as an actor, tackling a wide range of roles throughout his career.
Kevin Hagen’s contribution to the world of television, and particularly his memorable portrayal of Dr. Hiram Baker, remains an enduring part of his legacy in the entertainment industry.
He passed away on July 9, 2005.


Victor French in 1974
Victor French was an American actor and director best known for his roles in several popular television series. He was born on December 4, 1934, in Santa Barbara, California, and passed away on June 15, 1989.
French had a prolific career in Hollywood and became a recognizable face on both television and in film.
One of Victor French’s most prominent roles was that of Isaiah Edwards on the classic television series “Little House on the Prairie.” Isaiah Edwards was a close friend of the Ingalls family and played a significant role in the show’s storyline.
French’s portrayal of Isaiah Edwards was known for its warmth and authenticity.


Victor French in 1989
In addition to his work on “Little House on the Prairie,” Victor French appeared in other notable television shows, including “Highway to Heaven” alongside Michael Landon, who was his co-star on “Little House on the Prairie” as well.
He also had a successful career as a director, working on various television series.
Victor French’s contributions to the world of television, both as an actor and director, continue to be celebrated by fans of the shows in which he appeared.
His performances, particularly in “Little House on the Prairie” and “Highway to Heaven,” left a lasting impact on the television landscape.
French passed away on June 15, 1989.


Matthew Labyorteaux in 1974
Matthew Labyorteaux is an American actor best known for his role as Albert Ingalls on the popular television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
His portrayal of Albert Ingalls, an orphan who was adopted by the Ingalls family, was a significant and beloved character on “Little House on the Prairie.”
His character’s journey, from a troubled young boy to a beloved member of the Ingalls family, was a central storyline on the show.


Matthew Labyorteaux in 2023
After his time on “Little House on the Prairie,” Labyorteaux continued to work in the entertainment industry, primarily in television.
He also lent his voice to various animated series, including providing the voice for the character of Jaden Yuki in the English version of the anime series “Yu-Gi-Oh! GX.”
Matthew Labyorteaux remains a recognizable figure among fans of “Little House on the Prairie,” and his portrayal of Albert Ingalls is fondly remembered as a memorable part of the show’s legacy.


Dabbs Greer in 1974
Dabbs Greer was an American actor known for his extensive career in film and television. He had a prolific career spanning several decades and appeared in numerous movies and TV shows.
One of Dabbs Greer’s notable roles was that of Reverend Robert Alden on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
As Reverend Alden, he was a central figure in the community of Walnut Grove, providing spiritual guidance and support to the residents. His character was known for his wisdom, kindness, and moral compass.


Dabbs Greer in 2007
In addition to his role on “Little House on the Prairie,” Dabbs Greer had a long list of credits in both television and film. He often played character roles and made appearances in various well-known shows and movies.
Greer passed away on April 28, 2007.


Dean Butler in 1974
Dean Butler is an American actor best known for his role as Almanzo Wilder on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
He was born on May 20, 1956, in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada.
Dean Butler’s portrayal of Almanzo Wilder, the love interest and eventual husband of Laura Ingalls, was a significant and beloved character on “Little House on the Prairie.”
His character’s relationship with Laura, played by Melissa Gilbert, was a central storyline in the later seasons of the show.


Dean Butler in 2023
After his time on “Little House on the Prairie,” Dean Butler continued to work in the entertainment industry, primarily in television. He appeared in various TV shows and made-for-TV movies.
Dean Butler’s contributions to the world of television, particularly his role as Almanzo Wilder, remain an enduring part of his legacy in the entertainment industry.


Melissa Gilbert in 1974
Melissa Gilbert is an American actress and television personality known for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on the iconic television series “Little House on the Prairie.”
She was born on May 8, 1964, in Los Angeles, California.
Melissa Gilbert’s portrayal of Laura Ingalls, the spirited and adventurous daughter of Charles and Caroline Ingalls, was the central character of “Little House on the Prairie.”
Her character’s journey from childhood to adulthood, along with her experiences growing up on the American frontier, was a central focus of the show.


Melissa Gilbert in 2023
Beyond “Little House on the Prairie,” Melissa Gilbert has had a diverse career in film, television, and theater. She has appeared in various TV shows, films, and stage productions.
In addition to her acting career, she has been involved in politics, serving as the President of the Screen Actors Guild from 2001 to 2005.
Melissa Gilbert’s contributions to the world of entertainment, her portrayal of Laura Ingalls, and her multifaceted career have made her a respected figure in Hollywood, and she remains a beloved figure among fans of “Little House on the Prairie.”


Please SHARE this with your friends and family.