Where Was “Little House on the Prairie” Filmed and Other Fun Facts

Last updated: Dec 05, 2023

Who doesn’t love “Little House on the Prairie? While watching this series or reading the books, you get to learn about 19th-century life in the Midwest and the tough lessons the Ingalls family learned. Whether you grew up with it or not, we can all agree that this story is one of a kind.

“Little House on the Prairie” has been a popular TV show for decades, but not everything associated with its production is as wholesome as the show itself was. Today, we’re going to look at some facts the producers probably didn’t want anyone to know. These “Little House on the Prairie” behind the scenes secrets were hidden from us for decades. Get ready to be blown away as you learn these little-known facts about your favorite childhood series!

1. Karen Grassle’s Big Break

Karen Grassle found her way to fame and fortune when she got the role of Caroline Ingalls, also refered to as Ma, on Little House on the Prairie.” Karen’s life changed forever after playing an iconic character in one of America’s favorite shows from 1974 to 1983. She had no money before she landed the role and was running out of time to make her big break.

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Karen Grassle as Caroline Quiner Ingalls in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: YouTube/Melissa Sue Anderson Fan

In an interview with Closer Weekly, she shared her journey playing Caroline Ingalls of “Little House.” She also spoke of her life before the show. “I had spent a year in England, working with a Shakespeare company and teaching, and came back to the States flat broke,” Karen said. Well, let’s just say that she’s one lucky girl!

2. The Renovated Little House

The cabin from “Little House on the Prairie” is a national treasure. Many have imagined their own versions of this house as it was one of America’s most beloved book series before it became a TV show. The Little House on the Prairie Museum is renovating a near-perfect replica of their original log cabin in Walnut Grove. The “Little House on the Prairie” set replica is in Independence, Kansas.

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A replica of the "Little House on the Prairie" house

Source: melissagilbertofficial/Instagram

The initial intention was to recreate only the cabin, but it became a huge concept. The team is planning on adding modern technology for the Visitor’s Center and Prairie Town, making the replica of “Little House on the Prairie” inside look as familiar as possible with some key facts about the author and the TV show. This year, they’ll be adding more details and finishing touches to make “The Little House on the Prairie” Kansas set as authentic as possible–sounds exciting!

3. Alison Arngrim Became a Famous Gay Icon

Alison Arngrim, who played Nellie Oleson in the series, is now a famous gay icon in America. After the end of “Little House”, her career faltered. She tried a few different roles, but they didn’t work out. Fifteen years ago, Arngrim said she had a “lightbulb moment” then she was no longer trying to change who she was and instead embraced herself as she is.

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Alison Arngrim posing with a red and white car

Credit: Paul Harris/Getty Images

She is an open person who had a fascinating childhood and who does a lot of work to support good causes. According to the New York Times, actress Alison Arngrim is fully on board with the LGBT community. Recently, she performed during New York’s Gay Pride Month.

4. Wendi Lou Wrote a Book

Wendi Lou Lee was a child actress who became a writer. She is well known for her portrayal of Baby Grace in “Little House on the Prairie.” In 2015, Wendi underwent brain surgery to remove a tumor. After the successful operation, she started sharing her life and talking openly about her Christian faith.

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Wendi Lou Lee as a baby

Source: YouTube/BeautifulxThing

Wendi wrote a book, A Prairie Devotional, that was inspired by “Little House.” The book offers readers an insightful look into the lives behind-the-scenes of the hit TV show. She shares personal anecdotes from the show as well as stories about family struggles.

5. Actor Stan Ivar Kept His Character’s Homestead

After each “Little House on the Prairie” episode, one star would take a small piece from the show–a lesson, fun memories, or a literal homestead set. John Carter actor Stan Ivar dismantled his “Little House on the Prairie” house set to carry it home with him. It was his way of keeping the memories alive after filming ended.

Stan Ivar as John Carter on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: IMDb

Today, the replica house is an iconic symbol of nostalgia in Ivan’s barn in LA country. He tried to give back the set as a tourist attraction in Walnut Grove, the home of the “Little House on the Prairie”  filming location, but the show’s creator refused to accept it.

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6. They Blew the Entire Town Up in the Last Episode!

In 1984, Charles Ingalls, played by Michael Landon, ordered townspeople in the “Little House on the Prairie” movie to blow up the town so a land baron couldn’t have it. In real life, they blew  up the whole “Little House on the Prairie” location, too! According to Mental Floss, Producer Kent McCrary explained that NBC  had leased Walnut Grove from Getty Oil Company and Newhall Land Development Corporation as their set.

"Little House on the Prairie" set blowing up

Source: YouTube/alpha1productions

That’s why they needed to return the town to its original state after filming was done with “The Last Farewell.” Landon, who directed the last TV movie, decided to blow up the set, “What if we blow up the town?” Landon said. They did a lot of test runs to ensure that nobody on the set would get hurt.

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7. The Wizard of Oz Was Filmed in the Same Place

Have you ever wondered, “Where was ‘Little House on the Prairie’ filmed?” It’s an incredible feeling when you realize that the place where you work is actually part of your childhood, and that’s what Alison Arngrim felt that day. She shared that she couldn’t contain her happiness when she discovered that “Little House on the Prairie” filming took place on the same set as “The Wizard of Oz.”

"The Wizard of Oz" still of the Lion, Tin Man, Scarecrow, Dorothy, and the Wicked Witch of the West

Credit: Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images

When they saw the Yellow Brick Road from the famous “The Wizard of Oz” show, she said she got so excited that she started dancing and singing and acting like Dorothy. Even Grassle, who played Ma in the show, shared her feelings at the time. “It was wild. We were knee-deep in Hollywood history,” Grassle said in an interview with Closer Weekly.

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8. Landon Refuse to Raise Grassle’s Pay

When “Little House” became one of TV’s most popular shows and people watched it every day across America, Grassle asked for a pay raise. Even though she was one of the stars of her show, Grassle said that Landon (who was the producer as well as her co-star) refused her request.

A grayscale image of Karen Grassle and Michael Landon on the set "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: FilmPublicityArchive/United Archives via Getty Images

Grassle revealed in an interview with Closer Weekly that she wanted to renegotiate her contract, but Landon didn’t want to pay her. “It was very difficult,” Grassle said. Though in 1991, she had a friendly call and reconciled with Landon before he died.

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9. Isaiah Edwards Left the Show to Pursue Sitcom Stardom

Victor French, A.K.A. Mr. Edwards, was a well-loved cast member on “Little House.” In 1977, he left the show after appearing in the three seasons. He went on to star in a sitcom called “Carter Country that lasted two years before being canceled in 1980.

Victor French and Melissa Gilbert spitting in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: YouTube/rudolfo4711

He then returned to “Little House” in 1981. His character in the show had been written out, but he and Landon mended everything, so he was written back in. The Edwards family was back in the series but without their adopted son Sanderson.

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10. The Reason MacGregor Missed the Finale

When the last season of “Little House on the Prairie” came to an end, many familiar faces were nowhere to be found. One of the most notable was Katherine MacGregor, who played Mrs. Oleson in the show. Her last credited appearance was before the series finale.

Katherine MacGregor in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: IMDb

While filming the series, MacGregor was battling alcoholism. She decided to convert to Hinduism as a way to overcome her problems with alcohol. This involved going on a trip to India, and so she chose her faith over attending the show’s finale.

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11. The Cast Were Oscars Winners

Though it had a compelling story, “Little House on the Prairie” also sported some Oscar winners in its cast. We’re not just talking about Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbert. Some of you might already know this, but we want to give you a rundown.

Cast of "Little House on the Prairie" in a courtroom

Credit: YouTube/Little House on the Prairie

First on the list is Earnie Borgnine, who won the 1956 Best Actor Award. Red Buttons won an Oscar in 1957. Next was Burl Ives, an Oscar winner in 1959; Patricia Neal won Best Actress in 1964, while Eileen Heckart won Best Supporting Actress. Then there’s two-time Oscar and Emmy winner Louis Gossett, Jr. Talk about a talented bunch!

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12. Karen Grassle Based Her Character on Her Mom

The power of an actor’s performance is brought to life by the depth and breadth that they have experienced in their lifetime. For Karen Grassle, this was clear when she began playing her character Caroline on “Little House.” Her mannerisms and portrayal were all based on her mother.

Karen Grassle sitting on the porch in "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: IMDb

“I based her on my mother,” said Grassle in an interview. “If you read [Laura Ingalls Wilder’s] books and see photos, Caroline was very tough and sturdy. My mother rode a horse barefoot to school when she was young,” she added. Her mother was a strong woman, just like Caroline.

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13. What Happened to Albert Ingalls in Real Life

Michael Landon did more than just act in the series. In addition to playing Charles Ingalls, Landon was the managing producer on the series, and he was responsible for bringing Albert into season five. The producer thought that Charles would be looking for the opportunity to have a son since he and his wife had four daughters and had lost their only son.

Matthew Labyorteaux in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: IMDb

Therefore, Landon had an adopted son written into the script. Albert Ingalls actor Matthew Labyorteaux was written into the show, and the cast and director all praised his acting skills. Labyorteaux had some other acting roles but none as significant as “Little House.” He did, however, become a video game champion and later opened a youth center.

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14. Fans Noticed COVID-19 Similarities in the Plague Episode

Some fans of this series recall that the COVID-19 pandemic is similar to the storyline of “Plague and Quarantine,” an episode from “Little House.” With millions of lives lost in the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s no wonder people are sensitive to anything resembling this situation in shows, films, and books.

The Ingalls family posing in front of the "Little House on the Prairie" set

Source: Fotos International/Getty Images

Many viewers, including the cast, noticed eerie parallels. Melissa Gilbert reacted to an article about it and shared that she was thinking the same thing. She also said that people might learn a lesson from the series that could be applied nowadays.

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15. Melissa Gilbert’s Health Problems

Gilbert rose to fame in the role of Laura Ingalls Wilder on “Little House,” but she has since struggled with a number of health problems that have required surgery. It started with spinal fusions at both neck level (2001) and back level (2010), while two ruptured discs in the spine led to her third surgery in 2016.

A grayscale image of Melissa Gilbert in "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: NBC Television/Courtesy of Getty Images

Her third surgery wasn’t the last. The actress announced that she had an artificial disc instead of a fusion for her latest surgery. The fact that she went through four surgeries shows how strong-minded and determined this woman really is.

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16. Michael Landon Cast His Daughter

The fatherly figure of the show took an opportunity to help his daughter get on-screen by casting her in a guest role! His decision led to accusations of nepotism. However, the issues didn’t stop this famous actor from giving his daughter a try on the show.

Michael Landon on the set of "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images

Leslie Landon portrayed the character of Etta Plum, a school teacher. However, she played a big role in the series before it even began. Why? Leslie is said to be the one who convinced her father to accept the lead role.

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17. MacGregor Fell Off the Horse

There are many exciting adventures with the Ingalls in season four of “Little House on the Prairie.” The original episodes aired from September 12, 1977, to March 13, 1978, and viewers saw some serious injuries and illnesses that involved actors in different roles.

Katherine MacGregor falling off a horse in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: YouTube/Little House on the Prairie

For example, Mrs. Oleson (MacGregor) fell off her horse in episode 12, which is entitled “Here Comes the Bride.” Her stunt double had to take over the role until MacGregor was healed and able to return to the show.

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18. Little House Received 16 Emmy Nominations

“Little House on the Prairie” received 16 nominations, with only one going to an actor. Most of their awards were for cinematography, music composition, makeup, and creative technical roles.

Two little girls in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: FilmPublicityArchive/United Archives via Getty Images

Only one actor was recognized for her performance, and that was Melissa Sue Anderson, who portrayed Mary Ingalls. She won Best Leading Actress in a Drama Series in 1978. Her portrayal of blind Mary hooked viewers, and that was what led to her win at the Emmys. She certainly deserved it. Way go, girl!

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19. Walnut Grove Is Real

Walnut Grove is a real town located in Minnesota, and the author of “Little House on the Prairie” actually lived there. However, her family didn’t move there until 1874. Before that, they had lived at the Osage Diminished Reserve in Kansas.

A green and brown welcome sign from Walnut Grove, MA

Source: anyexcusetotravel.com

Apparently, there are many differences between what you see on TV compared to reality. If you visit Walnut Grove today, you’ll find a little town that looks nothing like the one in “Little House.” However, you can visit a replica town and stop by the museum and gift shop there.

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20. The Cast and Crew Were Heavy Drinkers

As one of the producers of “Little House on the Prairie,” Michael Landon dealt with pressures by secretly drinking with other crew members. One crew member revealed that Landon would go into hiding during filming to avoid being noticed and then return to work intoxicated.

Two girls talking on the porch in "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: YouTube/Little House on the Prairie

Landon’s drinking habits were not well-liked by his fellow cast members, especially during the early morning hours. Alison Arngrim was troubled by it, even as a kid. She even wrote about it in her memoir.

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21. Nellie’s Curly Hair Was A Wig

This is not the first time that we have learned something about Alison Arngrim’s experience playing Nellie Oleson. In fact, she revealed in her autobiography how much it hurt to have someone put wigs on for each day’s filming of this iconic role.

Alison Arngrim's wig process on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Facebook/Little House on the Prairie

The actress shared that they would secure her hair so well with metal pins that they would dig into her scalp. This got so rough that it caused her to bleed on several occasions. Perhaps she channeled the pain into making Nellie so nasty!

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22. Carrie Ingalls Was Played by Identical Twins

Carrie Ingalls was such a cutie in “Little House.” She was the sweet character in the show. Many people didn’t know that she was played by identical twins. Yes, it’s true. Carrie’s character was played by Sidney and Lindsay Greenbush, the daughters of actor Billy “Green” Bush.

Sidney and Lindsay Greenbush played Carrie Ingalls running through a field on "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: YouTube/Little House on the Prairie

The Greenbush sisters instantly won the role after their audition. During filming, they alternated scenes on separate days. Due to the fact that they were identical twins, many fans didn’t notice that the role was being played by different actors.

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23. Ingalls Family Dinners

The Ingalls family’s life on the farm was not always easy. When was “Little House on the Prairie” set? Between the 1870s–90s.
Back then, they had to get food and other necessities from their own resourcefulness. The time period of “Little House on the Prairie” meant that Mr. Ingralls would provide for his family by farming crops and hunting animals like rabbits and deer.

Melissa Gilbert in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: NBC Television/Courtesy of Getty Images

In reality, it wasn’t rabbit stew being served up during the dinners on set it certainly looked like a freshly-caught rabbit, but it was not. What they usually ate on the set was Dinty Moore beef stew and fried chicken.

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24. Melissa Anderson Didn’t Make Friends

When playing Nellie Oleson in “Little House,” actor Alison Arngrim noticed that one of her fellow cast mates never tried to make friends. The girl remained a mystery throughout filming, and she only interacted when on set for specific scenes.

The Ingalls girls with their father in the house in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: YouTube/Little House on the Prairie

This cast member was Melissa Sue Anderson, who played Mary Ingram. Melissa explained that she couldn’t wait to leave the series as soon as possible. Her reason was that the show became too soap opera-ish for her. Also, her character never got to do much because of her blindness.

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25. Cancer Fears Among Cast and Crew Members

Many cast and crew members of “Little House on the Prairie” seem to have been affected by radioactive waste from the Santa Susana nuclear meltdown, which happened in 1959. Michael Landon, who played Pa, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 1997. Meanwhile, Victor French and Kevin Hagen lost their lives to cancer.

Alison Arngrim as Nellie Oleson Dalton in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: NBC Television/Courtesy of Getty Images

So far, there’s one cancer survivor left among the crew. Charlotte Stewart survived despite being diagnosed with breast cancer. Many fans are convinced that it was due to radioactivity on the set, while others argue that it’s just a coincidence.

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26. Doherty Apparently Slept with Gilbert’s Husband

Melissa Gilbert revealed in her memoir, “Prairie Tale,” that Shannen Doherty slept with her husband. Gilbert and Doherty had met on the set of “Little House on the Prairie” as kids, so the betrayal was more than just a personal thing. There was an element to it that felt like the destruction of childish innocence.

Melissa Gilbert and Shannen Doherty in "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: IMDb

Shannen Doherty had apparently been Melissa Gilbert’s shadow on the show, going wherever she went and looking up to the older girl. It seems Doherty’s desire to emulate Gilbert transformed into something darker when they grew up. Sadly, Doherty’s actions caused Gilbert a lot of pain.

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27. One Actor Played Different Roles on the Show

You probably didn’t even notice, but one actor in the show played five different roles. That actor was EJ Andre. He played a gun dealer in “Little House on the Prairie” in his first casting. In 1976, he played Amos Thomas and later Matthew Simmons.

EJ Andre in "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: IMDb

From 1977-1978, Andre took another role in the series. His last character before he died was Uncle Jed. The actor’s versatility meant many viewers didn’t even notice his regular reappearance as different characters. He truly was an outstanding actor!

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28. Nellie and Laura Were Best Friends in Real Life

Nellie served as Laura’s main enemy in the series. Her manipulative personality contrasted with the calmer attitude of Laura. Eventually, their relationship matured, and the characters developed a fondness for each other.

A grayscale image of Melissa Gilbert and Alison Arngrim on the set of "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: NBC Television/Courtesy of Getty Images

The actors who played Laura and Nellie are actually good friends in real life. As youngsters, they kept themselves entertained by playing games after filming. Gilbert also shared that Alison was the only one who was still in contact with her.

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29. Melissa Gilbert Dated High-Profile Actors

Melissa Gilbert was clearly destined for fame, starting with commercials at just two years of age and then taking her iconic role in “Little House on the Prairie.” She has known nothing but fame for most of her life.

Melissa Gilbert and Rob Lowe walking a red carpet

Source: Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

The talented actor also dated some famous Hollywood stars. Gilbert has been romantically linked to some high-profile men, including Rob Lowe and Tom Cruise. Apparently, she liked to attend Hollywood parties in her early 20s and even dated rock icon ​​Billy Idol.

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30. MacGregor’s Annoying Attitude

Filming the series was usually an enjoyable experience, but conflict arose from time to time. One such conflict was the disruptive attitude of Katherine MacGregor, who had a tough time getting along with the director and other cast members because of constant differences of opinion.

Katherine MacGregor on "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: IMDb

MacGregor was always trying to tell people how they should be delivering their lines. If she wasn’t happy with her lines, she would rewrite them. This drove Michael Landon and Bill Claxton (producer) crazy. Indeed, it almost led to MacGregor’s removal from the show.

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31. President Ronald Reagan’s Favorite Show

“Little House on the Prairie” was one of Ronald Reagan’s favorite shows. Reagan was one of America’s most beloved presidents, and he had been an actor himself before he got into politics. Thus, it would have felt like an honor for those working on the show to know that he loved it so much.

Ronald Reagan posing in front of an American Flag

Source: Wikimedia Commons

It turns out that the feelings were mutual, at least from actor and producer Michael Landon. Landon was said to be a proud Republican who supported both of Raegan’s electoral campaigns.

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32. Landon’s Special Way to Make the Cast Cry

Each episode of the series required a lot of emotional scenes. The actors needed to be able to cry on cue, which isn’t always easy. Apparently, Landon could make the youngsters burst into tears with just one look. Somehow, he was able to reduce them to pure emotion with his eyes.

Michael Landon talking with Karen Grassle as she prays in "Little House on the Prairie"

Credit: IMDb

Landon was a maestro when it came to crying, but there was more to it than that. Many cast members agreed that Landon was not just a co-star, producer, or director. He was their father figure on the set. “Michael cares so much about everybody; he makes you care about yourself,” Melissa Sue Anderson said to People Magazine (via Melissa Sue Anderson’s fan page) in 1978.

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33. No Love Story for Mary and Sanderson

Mary Ingalls and John Sanderson were supposed to be husband and wife on the show. However, the duo failed in their portrayal of an engaged couple because they lacked any sort of natural connection with each other.

Mary Ingalls and John Sanderson in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: IMDb

When the two were performing together, it seemed like something wasn’t quite right. That’s why the director and producers scrapped their love story. They looked for a different love interest in Mary’s blind school, and this resulted in good chemistry.

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34. Linwood Boomer Produced a Classic Sitcom

Linwood Boomer is a Canadian-American producer, writer, and former actor. He began his career as an actor with the role of Adam Kendall on “Little House on the Prairie.” He stayed in the role from 1974 to 1983 before moving behind the scenes of Hollywood.

Linwood Boomer in "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: IMDb

Boomer found great success after creating the Fox sitcom “Malcolm in the Middle,” which was based on his life story. Twenty-two million viewers watched the debut episode of this series. It ran seven seasons from 2000-2006. It’s nice to know that he had a happy ending after his time on “Little House.”

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35. Melissa Gilbert’s First Kiss

In the episode “Sweet 16,” Laura kisses Almanzo, her love interest on the show. Almanzo was played by American-Canadian actor Dean Butler who’s eight years older than Gilbert. This was more than just Laura’s first kiss–it was Gilbert’s too, and she was unsure of what to do.

Dean Butler and Karen Grassle kissing on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Little House on the Prairie/YouTube

Gilbert revealed that she didn’t want to kiss Butler. She was worried about stubble and just didn’t feel like having to kiss someone for the show. However, this was an important moment for her character, so Gilbert valiantly completed the scene.

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36. Little House Was Jason Bateman's First Gig

In 1981, Jason Bateman made his television debut in a recurring role on the classic series “Little House on the Prairie.” His career as an actor and director has spanned decades, but it all started with his first gig as James Ingalls, the adopted son of Charles and Caroline.

Jason Bateman on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: YouTube/Little House on the Prairie

He was unknown when he was cast in the show, but look at him now  one of the most famous Hollywood actors. What an opportunity this show presented to those lucky enough to land a role. Of course, Bateman had more than luck on his side. He also had (and still has) great acting skills.

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37. Alison Auditioned for Laura and Mary

After being turned down by every casting agency in Hollywood, young Alison’s father told her that acting might not be the path she should take, but Alison was determined to audition again. After six months, she finally landed the role that changed her life.

Alison Arngrim on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: IMDb

At the time of the audition, Alison read for the parts of Laura and Mary, but she didn’t get either of the roles. She actually had a feeling that neither of the characters was a good fit for her, so she tried again and landed the role of Nellie.

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38. Landon’s Affair with a Makeup Artist

The story of Michael Landon and Lynn Noe is one that ends in divorce. The two drifted apart over 20 years before their relationship hit rock bottom. Landon found himself attracted to someone else–a makeup artist on “Little House on the Prairie” named Cindy Clerico.

A grayscale photo of Michael Landon posing

Source NBC Television/Getty Images

When Landon and Clerico couldn’t hide their relationship anymore, Landon decided to file for divorce from Noe. The actor and makeup artist married in 1983 and were blessed with two children. Their relationship lasted until Landon passed away due to cancer.

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39. Willie Oleson was Laura’s Real Life Brother

Willie Oleson was the second child and only son in the Oleson family. He lived on Walnut Grove with his mother, Nels Oleson, and sister Nellie Oleson. Willie was a spoiled and naughty child who was as much of a brat as his sister, Nellie.

Melissa Gilbert on a red carpet

Source: Albert Ortega/Online USA, Inc./Getty Images

The Oleson family played a big role in the lives of Laura and Mary. In real life, Willie Oleson, aka Jonathan Gilbert, was Laura’s brother. When “Little House” ended, Jonathan left acting, pursued his studies, and became a stockbroker in New York City.

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40. Michael Landon and Karen Grassle Were Not on Good Terms

Melissa Sue Anderson claims that the on-screen mother and father didn’t get along at all in real life. Apparently, there was some jealousy and tension between them, and even the kids on set noticed it.

Michael Landon and Karen Grassle on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: IMDb

Karen confirmed that she often took issue with Landon’s attitude. She said that Landon would get moody, which sometimes affected the cast and crew members on set. Despite his bad attitude, Karen said that Landon often told jokes to make them laugh and lift the mood.

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41. The Melissas Go Head-to-Head

Melissa Gilbert and Melissa Anderson play Laura Ingalls and Mary Ingalls, respectively. These two characters seem to be the type of sisters we wish we had who are as close as sisters can be. In reality, the two stars who play them couldn’t stand being around each other. This proves that they have the acting chops to pull off almost anything.

Melissa Gilbert and Melissa Anderson on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Little House on the Prairie : The Talking Machine (1976)

Years after the show, when they were already adults, Melissa Gilbert revealed in her memoir that she thought Anderson was incredibly “cold” and stuck up.” Don’t feel too bad, apparently, the feelings were mutual.

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42. The Grudge Between Michael & Melissa

Melissa Gilbert looked up to Michael Landon, he was somewhat of a father figure to her. When the news broke of his affair she took his choices personally and didn’t talk to him for about 9 years. Thankfully though this story has a semi-happy ending. They successfully had the opportunity to make up and reconcile.

Melissa Gilbert hugging Michael Landon on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Set of “Little House on the Prairie” / pancan.org

The unfortunate part is that only a week later he passed away from pancreatic cancer. Even though Gilbert and Landon couldn’t make up for lost time they could at least end on a good note.

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43. Hello Sean Penn, The Kid

Hollywood is no stranger to famous stars making iconic appearances on hit television shows and films, but sometimes these stars make appearances even before they hit it big and they make it just under the radar. This is true for Sean Penn whose first job was when he was cast in Little House on the Prairie.

Sean Penn on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: S1, EP11 “The Voice of Tinker Jones" / Little House on the Prairie

Penn is known today worldwide but before he was a bonafide star he made an appearance in Season 1, Episode 11 “The Voice of Tinker Jones.” He was only credited as, “kid” but things certainly worked out for him after that.

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44. Kyle Richards on the Prairie

Kyle Richards makes it on this list as another cameo that you may have missed, especially if you weren’t paying attention. Before she was quite recognizable on screen as the reality star we know and love, she was a child actor with a small part in this timeless show.

Kyle Richards on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Little House on the Prairie / kylerichards18; Instagram

Richards portrayed Alicia Edwards on the show and eventually became an Aunt to the famous Paris Hilton. Some would say, “That’s hot” news.

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45. The Opening Credits Famous Fall

Sometimes the most genius moments on screen end up by accident and here is no exception. Many viewers may have noticed during the opening credits there is quite a downhill tumble by Carrie Ingalls, scored by the “Little House on the Prairie” theme song.

The opening credits of "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Little House on the Prairie / Opening Credits

What you may not have known is that this was not only unscripted but a complete accident. Luckily, the child actress wasn’t hurt and the producers thought it was so cute and natural that they decided to add it into the opening. Now, can you guess which of the Greenbush sisters who played Carrie was the one who fell?

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46. The Landon Boot Trick

Michael Landon was clearly comfortable with his body, considering he took every opportunity to remove his shirt although there was one thing he seemed to be concerned about, his height. Landon stands at a height of 5’9” which is a decent height for anyone, but he believed that Pa Ingalls should be taller.

Michael Landon on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Little House on the Prairie / Alchetron

This was an easy fix for TV, for he ended up wearing tall platform boots to make him appear taller on camera. It definitely worked and you wouldn’t know unless someone told you.

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47. A Family Affair

We mentioned that Michael Landon’s daughter appeared on the show but that isn’t the only family member who made an appearance. Melissa Gilbert’s brother, Jonathan also had a role in the series. Jonathan played Willie Oleson although he didn’t end up pursuing an acting career like his sister.

Jonathan Gilbert on "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Little House on the Prairie / Instagram

Despite having a short-lived acting career we think he definitely holds his own on screen. It makes us wonder what could have been. As far as we can tell these two siblings have somewhat of a rift and remain estranged. Both Jonathan and Melissa were adopted by their actor parents Paul Gilbert and Barbara Crane.

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48. Recycling is a Bonanza

Recycling is not only good for the environment, but apparently also good for TV. Michael Landon also acted in another hit TV show called, “Bonanza,” a western. Landon took some of the storylines from “Bonanza” to make “Little House on the Prairie” the bonanza that it was.

"Bonanza" DVD Cover

Source: Amazon/NBC Network

The unused scripts of one show became the solutions to another, after some revisions of course. It may sound unethical but don’t worry it was widely accepted at the time, “script recycling” made sure nothing was wasted.

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49. The Golden California Heat

The show may have been set in Minnesota but like many entertainment classics, “Little House on the Prairie” filming took place in California, Simi Valley to be exact. The California sun caused lots of problems especially when actors had to wear many bulky layers to make it believable to the time period. Talk about discomfort.

"Little House on the Prairie" location in Simi Valley, California

Source: YouTube / Eric Carson

Staying hydrated and taking precautions was a must in order to prevent the crew from passing out from the heat. One crew member indeed passed out on the first day of production.

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50. Staying Young in Hollywood

All children eventually grow up, especially in Hollywood, some would even say faster than others. Often times child actors don’t play their real age but that doesn’t stop them, there are many easy fixes to making sure that this goes undetected. Melissa Gilbert encountered some of these challenges when she began to grow up right before our eyes.

Melissa Gilbert studying on the set of "Little House on the Prairie"

Source: Melissa Gilbert/Instagram/ET Exclusive

Laura Ingalls doesn’t really grow up in the series despite Gilbert growing at a rapid pace. This resulted in the decision to bind her chest to appear younger and not give away the fact she was getting older than who she was supposed to play. Kudos to her dedication but it does seem a bit extreme.

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