Little House On The Prairie Where Are They Now?

Introduction to “Little House on the Prairie”

“Little House on the Prairie” is a beloved American western historical drama television series that captured the hearts of viewers around the world. Based on the “Little House” books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, the series aired from 1974 to 1983 and followed the life and adventures of the Ingalls family in the 19th century American Midwest. The show’s depiction of family values, pioneering spirit, and resilience in the face of adversity left a lasting impression on its audience. Decades after the final episode aired, fans continue to wonder about the cast that brought these iconic characters to life. Where are the stars of “Little House on the Prairie” now?

Cast of “Little House on the Prairie”: Where Are They Now?

The cast of “Little House on the Prairie” featured a range of talented actors who have since pursued various paths in their careers and personal lives. Let’s take a look at where some of the key cast members are today.

• Michael Landon (Charles Ingalls)
• Karen Grassle (Caroline Ingalls)
• Melissa Gilbert (Laura Ingalls Wilder)
• Melissa Sue Anderson (Mary Ingalls)
• Lindsay and Sidney Greenbush (Carrie Ingalls)
• Matthew Laborteaux (Albert Quinn Ingalls)
• Dean Butler (Almanzo Wilder)
• Alison Arngrim (Nellie Oleson)
• Jonathan Gilbert (Willie Oleson)
• Kevin Hagen (Dr. Hiram Baker)
• Richard Bull (Nels Oleson)
• Katherine MacGregor (Harriet Oleson)
• Victor French (Isaiah Edwards)

Michael Landon (Charles Ingalls)

Michael Landon, who played the beloved patriarch Charles Ingalls, was also a director, writer, and producer on the show. After “Little House,” he went on to star in another successful television series, “Highway to Heaven.” Tragically, Landon passed away from pancreatic cancer in 1991.

Karen Grassle (Caroline Ingalls)

Karen Grassle, who portrayed Caroline Ingalls, continued her acting career with various TV and stage roles. She has also been an advocate for women’s rights and has written a memoir about her life and experiences.

Melissa Gilbert (Laura Ingalls Wilder)

Melissa Gilbert, who played the central character Laura Ingalls, grew up on the show and continued acting in television and movies. She also served as the President of the Screen Actors Guild and has written several books, including a memoir. In recent years, she has been involved in politics and ran for Congress in Michigan, although she later withdrew due to health concerns.

Melissa Sue Anderson (Mary Ingalls)

Melissa Sue Anderson, who portrayed Mary Ingalls, moved to Canada after her time on “Little House” and has continued acting in various productions. She has also written a memoir about her time on the show and her life afterward.

Lindsay and Sidney Greenbush (Carrie Ingalls)

The Greenbush twins, Lindsay and Sidney, shared the role of Carrie Ingalls. After the show, they both stepped away from acting. Lindsay has worked in the horse racing industry, while Sidney has focused on her family and personal life.

Matthew Laborteaux (Albert Quinn Ingalls)

Matthew Laborteaux played Albert Quinn Ingalls, an adopted son of the Ingalls family. Post-“Little House,” he continued acting, particularly in voice roles for animated series and video games. He also co-founded the Youth Rescue Fund, a charity to help young people in crisis.

Dean Butler (Almanzo Wilder)

Dean Butler portrayed Almanzo Wilder, Laura’s husband. After the series, Butler continued acting and also moved into producing and directing. He has produced content related to the “Little House” legacy, including documentaries about Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Alison Arngrim (Nellie Oleson)

Alison Arngrim, who played the memorable antagonist Nellie Oleson, became a stand-up comedian and author. She is also an activist, particularly involved in HIV/AIDS advocacy and child protection.

Jonathan Gilbert (Willie Oleson)

Jonathan Gilbert, who played Willie Oleson, left acting after “Little House” and pursued a career in finance. He has kept a low profile and has not been involved in the entertainment industry since.

Kevin Hagen (Dr. Hiram Baker)

Kevin Hagen played the kind-hearted Dr. Hiram Baker. He continued acting until his death in 2005. Hagen had a long career in television and was beloved by “Little House” fans for his portrayal of the Walnut Grove doctor.

Richard Bull (Nels Oleson)

Richard Bull, who played Nels Oleson, continued to act in various roles until his passing in 2014. He had a successful career in television and film spanning several decades.

Katherine MacGregor (Harriet Oleson)

Katherine MacGregor, known for her role as the gossipy Harriet Oleson, retired from acting and lived a quiet life until her death in 2018. She was involved in community theater and taught acting in Los Angeles.

Victor French (Isaiah Edwards)

Victor French, who played Isaiah Edwards, was a close friend of Michael Landon and worked with him on “Highway to Heaven” after “Little House.” French passed away from lung cancer in 1989.

Summary Table: “Little House on the Prairie” Cast Then and Now

FAQs: “Little House on the Prairie” Cast

• How many of the original cast members are still active in the entertainment industry?
  Several original cast members remain active in the entertainment industry, including Melissa Gilbert, Matthew Laborteaux, and Dean Butler.
• Did any cast members write memoirs about their time on the show?
  Yes, both Melissa Gilbert and Melissa Sue Anderson have written memoirs about their experiences on “Little House on the Prairie.”
• Have any cast members passed away?
  Yes, Michael Landon, Kevin Hagen, Richard Bull, Katherine MacGregor, and Victor French have all passed away.
• What have the Greenbush twins been up to since the show ended?
  The Greenbush twins have largely stayed out of the public eye, with Lindsay working in the horse racing industry and Sidney focusing on her personal life.
• Did any cast members go into politics?
  Melissa Gilbert ran for Congress in Michigan but withdrew due to health concerns.

Conclusion

The legacy of “Little House on the Prairie” lives on through its cast, who have each taken different paths since the show’s conclusion. While some have continued to work in the entertainment industry, others have found success in various fields or chosen to live a life away from the spotlight. The impact of the show and its portrayal of American frontier life continues to resonate with audiences today, and the stories of where the cast members are now add another layer to the rich history of this classic series.