Little House on the Prairie is one of those timeless series that never fade in popularity, no matter how many years pass. Since its debut in 1974, it has remained on the air, captivating generations of viewers.
The show follows the lives of the Ingalls family as they build their life on a farm in Plum Creek, near Walnut Grove, Minnesota. With its heartfelt themes and compelling storytelling, it continues to be regarded as one of the greatest series of all time.
The Cast That Brought Little House on the Prairie to Life
The talented actors who contributed to the show’s success became well-known figures in the entertainment industry. Among them were the legendary Michael Landon as Charles Ingalls, Karen Grassle as Caroline Ingalls—one of the most beloved mother figures in television history—Melissa Gilbert, Melissa Sue Anderson, Dean Butler, and many others.
Karen Grassle’s Unexpected Path to Little House on the Prairie
Karen Grassle landed the role of Caroline Ingalls by chance. At the time, she had planned to work on an independent film in Los Angeles, but when she arrived at the airport, she discovered there were no available tickets.
Soon after, her agent called about an opportunity to audition for a project starring Michael Landon, whom she only knew as “that guy from Bonanza.”
“The producers had already auditioned every actress in Hollywood who fit the role,” Grassle recalled. “They were running out of time. After I finished my second scene with Michael, he jumped up and exclaimed, ‘Bring her to wardrobe!’ But I still needed approval from NBC, so he had me audition for executives via closed-circuit TV.”
Although the series was adapted from Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House books, when it came to shaping her portrayal of Caroline Ingalls, Grassle found inspiration in her own mother.
“If you look at Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books and old photos, you’ll see that Caroline was strong and resilient,” she explained. “My mother used to ride a horse barefoot to school and later taught in a one-room schoolhouse. I took her strength, wisdom, and character and infused Caroline with those qualities.”
Tensions Between Karen Grassle and Michael Landon
At the time she joined the show, Grassle likely had no idea just how big Little House on the Prairie would become. Reflecting on those years, she described Landon as a man who loved to make the crew laugh and keep spirits high. “He worked incredibly hard and could be moody—he had a lot on his shoulders that first year. He clashed with a producer early on, leaving him as the sole leader of the show.”
However, as Little House gained widespread popularity, tensions arose between Grassle and Landon over her salary.
According to her memoir, Grassle alleged that Landon frequently belittled her, cracked inappropriate jokes, and insisted she shouldn’t earn more than the child actors on the show.
“I felt disrespected as his co-star on a hit series,” she said. “I wasn’t trying to take advantage of anyone, but I expected fair pay.”
Landon allegedly told her, “The network did some testing, and Ma isn’t the favorite character, so they don’t want to increase your salary.” Other times, he would dismiss her concerns with remarks like, “It’s a tough business,” or “We have to keep salaries balanced between you and the girls.”
Despite Landon’s immense talent and devotion to his crew, Grassle found salary negotiations with him “very difficult.”
She chose not to speak publicly about their disagreements at the time, fearing it would further damage their professional relationship. “I didn’t say anything publicly,” she admitted. “But the fact that I kept negotiating may have led to Mike making comments about me that could have been damaging.”
Following their dispute, Landon reportedly reduced her screen time, cutting her scenes and limiting her role in the storyline.
Grassle also recalled instances where he ridiculed her appearance and facial expressions.
“I felt paralyzed,” she said. “But as a woman in the 1970s film industry, I was used to such treatment. It never crossed my mind to push back forcefully. Instead, I remained professional, played my part, and hoped for the best.”
A Reconciliation Before Landon’s Passing
Despite their past conflicts, Grassle and Landon reconciled before his death in 1991.
“We had a warm conversation reminiscing about the good old days,” Grassle shared. “I was grateful for that moment of healing.”
Landon was deeply admired by those who knew him. He was not only a talented actor and director but also a mentor who supported many in the industry.
Actor Dean Butler, who played Almanzo Wilder, spoke highly of Landon’s influence on his career.
Landon was known for caring about his colleagues and ensuring that crew members could wrap up work in time to be home for dinner with their families.