Melissa Gilbert recently shared heartwarming memories of her late Little House on the Prairie costar, Michael Landon, emphasizing his dedication to making the cast happy. Gilbert recounted how Landon, who played Charles Ingalls in the series, would forego payment for announcing the Rose Parade on NBC to buy Christmas presents for the cast and crew each year. This gesture showcased Landon's selflessness and commitment to his colleagues.
Gilbert also highlighted Landon's role as a father figure to many cast members, particularly noting his support for her after her own father passed away when she was just 11 years old. She expressed gratitude for Landon's paternal guidance during her formative years on the show.
The actress emphasized that Little House on the Prairie, which aired over 200 episodes and was based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's books, owed much of its success to Landon's multifaceted contributions as a writer, director, and producer. Gilbert underscored that the reunion event was a testament to Landon's enduring legacy and the impact of the show on audiences.
Reflecting on her return to Big Sky Ranch, where the show was filmed, Gilbert described the experience as emotional and nostalgic, evoking cherished memories from her childhood and time spent with the cast and crew. She expressed gratitude for being part of a series that had a profound impact on viewers and considered it an honor to have been part of such a significant production.
Overall, Gilbert's recollections of her time on Little House on the Prairie and her admiration for Michael Landon's generosity and mentorship serve as a poignant tribute to the enduring legacy of the beloved series and its dedicated cast and crew.
