Advertise on podcast: Little House on the Prairie 50th Anniversary Podcast

Every great journey has a beginning, and this week on Little House 50 Podcast, we're going all the way back to where it all started: the original Little House on the Prairie Pilot! And oh, what a first it is! We're revisiting the episode that introduced us to the Ingalls family and gave us so many iconic moments that helped make Little House on the Prairie the beloved classic we know and love today. So how did we wait this long to recap the Pilot? We have some catching up to do! Plus, let's talk about Melissa Gilbert—could she be the most perfect child actor ever cast in a television series? Her portrayal of Laura steals our hearts right from the start. But wait… how on earth does the Little House Pilot compare to Rocky? Well we're going the distance, drawing some surprising parallels between these two unforgettable stories, and finally giving the Pilot the attention it deserves! And stay until the end, because we have our very first Patreon video question to answer! Then, join us on Patreon, where Alison and Dean take a deep dive into the incredible story of Ed Friendly, the creator and executive producer of Little House on the Prairie. Discover how he brought the series to life, the eventual rift between Friendly and Michael Landon, and the enduring legacy of Little House. Plus, they explore the remarkable career of Kent McCray, discussing his autobiography and his lasting impact on television history!  Links and Resources: PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts, and visit our BONNETHEAD BOUTIQUE merch store! www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Find out about Kent McCray and order his book, "Kent McCray: The Man Behind the Most Beloved Television Shows https://kentmccray.com/ To learn more about Little House on the Prairie: www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv  Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

This week on Little House 50 Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most talked-about—and polarizing—episodes in Little House on the Prairie history: “The Godsister.” And who better to help us recap, than the Greenbush Twins! Straight from the source! The story puts Carrie Ingalls front and center as she encounters her imaginary friend, Alyssa. We get firsthand memories of making that episode, including the unique experience of switching who played Carrie and who played Alyssa, the challenges and fun of filming the episode, and what they remember about working with Michael Landon. We know--“The Godsister” has become one of those Little House episodes that inspires some very strong opinions. For some viewers, it’s a beloved and memorable Carrie story. For others, it remains one of the most unusual—and even frustrating—episodes of the series. But before you come down on poor Carrie, rewatching it today might just change your mind. Carrie's story reveals a much deeper emotional life that any child psychologist could write a dissertation on! And does anybody remember that there's an entire other plot involving Pa and Jonathan Garvey that is riveting?! Whether you love “The Godsister,” dislike it, or have never quite known what to make of it, this is your chance to hear the story directly from the two people who were at the center of it. Then, join us on Patreon where the Greenbush twins discuss their long awaited reunion with Melissa Francis at the Nashville event in September, what it was like for them going to school full time for the very first time at age 12 once the show ended, and the surprising revelations that came up while connecting with her former Prairie child actors.  Links and Resources: PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts, and visit our BONNETHEAD BOUTIQUE merch store! www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Visit https://greenbushtwins.com/ if you'd like to be a part of this online community of eco-friendly products, artisans and friends.  To learn more about Little House on the Prairie: www.littlehouseontheprairie.com  Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

Season 4 of the LittleHouse50Podcast is officially here, and we’re kicking things off with a look back what’s been happening behind the scenes since we wrapped Season 3, including an unforgettable trip to Nashville and a very special night at the Grand Ole Opry. We’re excited about where Season 4 is headed! Expect more opportunities for audience participation, listener questions, community conversations, and Patreon interaction throughout the season. Plus, some amazing guests! If you’re part of our Patreon community, we have already started a group chat, where everyone can talk to us and join in on the conversation. Every Friday we will start a new topic to discuss -- but we're here to talk about anything Prairie related any time! Keep an eye out for more ways to connect with us, because we have some cool things in the works. (A Zoom coctail hour, please?) Thanks for listening, supporting, sharing, and being part of the LittleHouse50Podcast family.  Subscribe/follow the podcast so you don’t miss an episode of Season 4. Season 4 is just getting started — and we’re so glad you’re here for it. Let’s make Season 4 our best one yet! Pamela, Dean, and Alison continue the conversation on Patreon, where they discuss exciting ideas for Patreon members, along with a surprising experience Pamela had involving channeling June Carter — an experience later validated by June’s daughter, Carlene Carter! Links and Resources: PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts, and visit our BONNETHEAD BOUTIQUE merch store! www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

Some actors make an impression. Katy Kurtzman made two—and both are unforgettable. Little House fans first fell in love with her as Anna Gillberg in the beloved Season 3 episode "The Music Box," where she delivered one of the most heartfelt performances in the series as a shy young girl with a stutter who finds an unlikely friend in Laura Ingalls (and unfortunately crosses paths with one very smug Nellie Oleson and one very stolen music box). She later returned as young Caroline Quiner in "I Remember, I Remember," giving us a sweet glimpse into the early romance of Charles and Caroline. Beyond Walnut Grove, Katy built an impressive career with starring roles in television movies, hit series, and earned three Young Artist Award nominations before expanding into writing, directing, producing, and coaching the next generation of performers. In this episode, we have the absolute joy of talking with the incredible Katy Kurtzman—and wow, what a guest. She's funny, dynamic, honest, refreshingly open, and shares stories with the same heart she brought to every performance. From working with Michael Landon to growing up in Hollywood and building a career behind the camera, nothing is off limits. Whether you've loved Katy since Anna found her voice or you're just discovering what an amazing human she is, this conversation will leave you smiling. (Don't worry—we promise no music boxes were stolen during the recording.) Then join us on Patreon, where Katy shares even more Little House memories, her candid thoughts on being a child actor, and even pulls out some incredible memorabilia she saved from her time on the show. Trust us—we were absolutely gobsmacked. You won't want to miss it! Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! IPLP’s Nashville event: Sept 11-13LittleHouseonthePrairieCastReunions.com To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

For nearly a year, Alison Arngrim managed to do the impossible: keep a secret. And not just any secret—she appears in a surprise cameo in Episode 2 of Netflix's brand-new Little House on the Prairie! On the very day the series premiered, we sat down with everyone's favorite Nellie Oleson to finally spill the beans. How did it happen? What was it like stepping back into the world of Little House? And perhaps most impressively... how on earth did Alison keep this from the fans for an entire year? Join us as Alison takes us behind the scenes of her unforgettable cameo, shares what it was like visiting the new Little House, meeting the cast, and passing the prairie torch to a new generation. It's a heartfelt, hilarious, and history-making conversation filled with laughs, surprises, and just enough behind-the-scenes gossip to make even Mrs. Oleson lean in a little closer. If you've already spotted Alison in Episode 2, you'll love hearing how it all came together. And if you haven't... well, what are you waiting for? We'll still be here when you get back. Then join us on Patreon, where Alison shares exclusive, never-before-seen behind-the-scenes photos from her time on the set of Netflix's new Little House on the Prairie. It's an incredible peek behind the prairie curtain that fans won't want to miss! Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! IPLP’s Nashville event: Sept 11-13LittleHouseonthePrairieCastReunions.com To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

This week we're heading to Walnut Grove with "Circus Man," the episode that proves if a charming stranger shows up with a monkey, a few magic tricks, and some questionable miracle cures...everyone immediately forgets to ask for credentials. Academy Award winner Red Buttons guest stars as the lovable drifter Willie O'Hara, winning over the entire town—except Doc Baker, who isn't exactly thrilled to lose patients to a guy whose medical license appears to be "trust me." Which leads us to ask the eternal question: Is Doc Baker hot??? Meanwhile, Laura is completely enchanted by Willie and becomes convinced he can perform real miracles when her beloved Jack is badly injured. It's a touching story about hope, faith, and learning that sometimes the greatest magic isn't sleight of hand—it's love, kindness, and people showing up when it matters most. Join us as we revisit one of the series' sweetest and most emotional episodes, celebrate Red Buttons' unforgettable guest performance, talk about Laura's unwavering belief in magic, and wonder how Walnut Grove somehow never developed a healthy skepticism of traveling salesmen. Then, join us on Patreon where Dean and Pamela talk about pragmatism vs. hope (and "woo woo"), and Dean gives us more fascinating behind-the-scenes details on how the show was made. Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast... PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites.  www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! IPLP’s Nashville event: Sept 11-13 LittleHouseonthePrairieCastReunions.com To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com  Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

This week we're recapping "The Rivals", where Charles and Jonathan turn hauling freight into a full-blown competition, leaving Caroline wondering if she's about to lose her husband to a wagon.  But the real fun is watching Laura stumble headfirst into the wonderfully awkward world of adolescence. With her first real power crush on Jimmy Hill, she is desperate to seem more "grown up," and "ladylike".  The questionable first step: Seek romantic advice from Nellie Oleson. Which goes as well as you'd expect. But it all leads up to "Cringe-Fest 1878" where Laura stuffs apples into her dress to make it look like she spontaneously develops "bumps."  NO, LAURA, NO!!! It's one of the funniest—and most painfully relatable—moments in the series, reminding us that adolescence is awkward, confusing, and often fueled by spectacularly bad ideas.  Dean, Alison and Pamela also have particularly unhinged and hilarious conversations during this episode--things that were NEVER ON YOUR BINGO CARD! Join us as we laugh through one of the series' funniest coming-of-age episodes, and a sweet reminder that growing up—and being yourself—isn't a race. Then, join us on Patreon as we continue our ridiculously unhinged conversation all about first crushes, adolescence, and how development into yourself is on its own timeline.  Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! IPLP’s Nashville event: Sept 11-13LittleHouseonthePrairieCastReunions.com To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

This week we're discussing one of the series' most heartfelt and quietly powerful episodes, The Craftsman. What starts as a simple friendship between Albert and Isaac Singerman, Walnut Grove's kind-hearted Jewish carpenter, soon becomes a lesson in prejudice, courage, and what it truly means to judge a person by their character. As Albert discovers that some of his classmates—and even Laura—aren't exactly winning any "Most Open-Minded Pioneer" awards, he finds himself standing up to the ugly reality of antisemitism while learning some of life's most important lessons from Isaac. Meanwhile, Isaac is busy building what may be his greatest masterpiece: his own coffin. (Because on Little House, even woodworking projects can make you cry.) We'll talk about the episode's remarkable performances, its thoughtful handling of religious intolerance, and why Isaac remains one of the most memorable guest characters ever to enter "the Vortex". It's a beautiful story about friendship, mortality, and the courage to do what's right—even when the crowd is heading the other way. Grab a handkerchief, maybe a woodworking tool or two (but never nails!) and join us as we revisit this moving classic that reminds us kindness is always a craft worth mastering. Then, join us on Patreon as we explore two very different television approaches to confronting bigotry: the comedy and satire of All in the Family's Archie Bunker versus the heartfelt dramatic storytelling Michael Landon brought to Little House on the Prairie. We'll discuss how both shows challenged audiences in their own way. And we also discuss some of the top episodes that left the most lasting impression on the viewers. What episode(s) left the most impact to you? Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! IPLP’s Nashville event: Sept 11-13LittleHouseonthePrairieCastReunions.com To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

Step right up! This week we recap Season 6's beloved episode, "Annabelle"—a story that begins with circus fun and ends with one of the series' most heartfelt lessons.When a traveling circus rolls into Walnut Grove, Nels Oleson gets the shock of his life when he discovers that one of the featured performers is his estranged sister, Annabelle. What follows is one of Little House's most touching stories about family, shame, acceptance, and learning that love and acceptance matter far more than appearances.Meanwhile, Laura has a circus of her own to manage when Almanzo takes the decidedly "snippy" Kristy Norton to the big show, sparking a healthy dose of teenage jealousy—and leading to one very memorable kiss.Join us as we discuss the episode's humor, heart, and powerful message: sometimes the biggest transformation happens not to the person being judged, but to the one doing the judging.Then, join us on Patreon where the trio not only talk about their own experiences with bullying, but Michael Landon's childhood experiences with bullying, and how that guided his career.  Links and Resources:Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! IPLP’s Nashville event: Sept 11-13 LittleHouseonthePrairieCastReunions.com To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

This week, we're stepping up to the plate with Season 9's "The Big Inning"—an episode that proves even a simple premise can knock one out of the park. Unlike the previous week's The Older Brothers (which tried very hard to be funny--and also, OMG I can't believe we're still talking about that one!), The Big Inning is a genuinely goofy, lighthearted comedy that actually works. Truth be told, we spend less time breaking down the plot than usual because, well... there isn't all that much plot to break down. Instead, our conversation takes a few unexpected detours into other Prairie topics, behind-the-scenes memories, and whatever random thoughts happen to cross our minds. But don't worry—we always find our way back to Walnut Grove eventually. It may not be our most traditional recap, but it's one of our most spontaneous. So pull up a chair, join the conversation, and enjoy an episode that's every bit as varied, unpredictable, and fun as the podcast itself. Then, join us on Patreon where we talk about one of the main themes of the episode; Gambling. The good, bad and the ugly. Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

This week we're joined by a very special guest: actress, singer, artist and director Melora Hardin! You may know Melora as the unforgettable Jan Levinson from The Office, Trudy Monk from Monk, or from her work in The Rocketeer, 27 Dresses, 17 Again, Transparent, The Bold Type, Hannah Montana: The Movie, and countless other film and television projects. (Seriously-she's been in everything!) But for Little House on the Prairie fans, Melora holds a unique place in Prairie history. In fact, she pulled off a clasic move on Little House: she played two completely different characters—Belinda Stevens and Michelle Pierson—both of whom caught the eye of Albert Ingalls (Matthew Labyorteaux). That's right, Albert apparently had a type! Join us as we chat with Melora about her memories of Little House on the Prairie, working with Matthew Labyorteaux, and her remarkable career spanning decades in Hollywood. From Walnut Grove to Dunder Mifflin and beyond, Melora shares stories, laughs, and behind-the-scenes memories from a life spent in front of the camera. It's a fascinating conversation with one of television's most versatile performers—and we promise, unlike Jan Levinson, no one gets sent to corporate. Don't miss this wonderful trip down memory lane with the talented and delightful Melora Hardin! Then, join us on Patreon, where Melora opens up even more about her connection with Matthew Labyorteaux and shares stories that didn't make it into the main episode. You won't want to miss it! Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast Check out Melora Hardin, including her scarf and wallpaper line: www.melora.com  www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

We're still reeling from last week's episode, "The Older Brothers" -- so we needed a Prairie palette cleanser! This week's episode, "I Remember, I Remember," did just that.  Get ready for flashback realness! Because Caroline shares the story of how she first met Charles and fell in love. Through sweet, funny, and bittersweet memories, we see young Caroline trying to catch the eye of a charming young Charles Ingalls long before Walnut Grove ever existed. This beloved episode also marks the premiere appearance of Matthew Labyorteaux, years before he officially joined the series as Albert Ingalls. Playing young Charles, Matthew perfectly captures Michael Landon’s mannerisms, warmth, and mischievous charm in a performance that feels remarkably natural for such a young actor. Equally wonderful is Katy Kurtzman as young Caroline, delivering a heartfelt and emotionally intelligent performance filled with determination, vulnerability, and prairie-era sass. Their performances, along with this storyline, feel completely believable and deeply touching. Is it historically accurate? Maybe not. But in our TV Prairie world, it's all about what serves the plot! And we're here for it! (Have we recovered from "The Older Brothers" yet? Then, join us on Patreon, where the trio shares their favorite anniversary stories that will make you swoon -- and laugh a little.   Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

This week we take on one of the most random late-era episodes of Little House on the Prairie: “The Older Brothers” from Season 9, Episode 14… and almost immediately abandon discussing the actual plot because, frankly, we just couldn’t do it. In this rare “non-recap recap,” we spend less time talking about what happened in the episode and more time asking the real questions: What happened to Season 9? How did one of television’s most beloved family dramas lose its way? Did the departure of Michael Landon as a central presence affect the soul of the show? Why did Walnut Grove suddenly feel like a completely different universe? And what was going on behind the scenes that may have contributed to the series coming to an end? And yes — we do attempt to discuss “The Older Brothers,” which somehow feels like a bizarre mashup of Blazing Saddles and Laurel and Hardy… just without any of the actual laughs. (Sorry, Michael Landon!). Despite the episode itself being… a challenge… the conversation turned into one of our most fascinating discussions yet about the legacy, decline, and strange final chapter of Little House on the Prairie. Sometimes the best recaps come from episodes that completely derail the train. This is one of those times. Then join us on Patreon, where we take a much deeper dive into the behind-the-scenes complications of Season 9, Victor French’s difficult position within the series, and Alison wrestles with the ultimate late-era Prairie question: “Should I have left… or should I have stayed on the show?” Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast... PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit  www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Producer at PodXperience.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

Trigger Warning: This discussion includes references to suicide, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Please take care while listening/reading, and step away if needed. If you or someone you know is struggling, consider reaching out to a trusted person or call 988 for the suicide hotline. "The Return of Mr. Edwards” is one of the series’ darkest examinations of despair. After a crippling logging accident leaves Isaiah unable to walk, the man who once embodied rough-edged warmth, strength, and frontier vitality turns inward,becoming angry, self-destructive, and nearly unrecognizable to the people who love him. In Victor French’s performance, the episode reaches back toward the harder, more menacing screen. Victor French brought warmth, humor, grit, and humanity to every role he played. He had a rare gift: he made people feel seen. Beneath the tough exterior was a deeply compassionate spirit, and that sincerity resonated with generations of viewers. And this episode is the epitome of all that Victor encompassed. We also remember Victor Allen French, who made his debut as his father’s stand-in during this episode. Victor Allen passed away from cancer on April 6, 2026, and we honor him today. He became such an important part of our Prairie family, carrying his father’s legacy and sharing that spirit with fans around the world. As we reflect on both father and son, we hold space for the joy they brought and the lasting impact they leave behind. May their memories continue to inspire kindness, empathy, laughter, and connection. They will not be forgotten. Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast... PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Producer: Tony Sweet www.ubngo.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.

his week, we couldn’t record a full recap episode because Dean was in Washington, D.C. doing important things! Instead, we’re sharing an exclusive clip from a longer conversation that will be released on Patreon on Monday, May 11. In this preview, Dean talks about his visit to the Library of Congress and how Little House on the Prairie has a surprising presence there. We also get into unexpected connections between Star Trek and Prairie, the music of David Rose, and the quietly powerful experience of being inside the U.S. Capitol. For the full 45-minute conversation, join us on Patreon. You’ll hear about Dean and Alison’s trip to Ocean City, Maryland—where the crab was hot and the cars were hotter—before diving into the rest of Dean’s time in Washington, D.C., from meeting Chaplain Margaret Grun Kibben, the Chaplain of the House of Representatives, to the moments that left him feeling hopeful, inspired, and connected to something larger. Links and Resources: Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Get more behind-the-scenes info and fun conversation we can't do on the podcast...PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites. www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com  Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart. Prairie Legacy Productions - the place to go for info about all new Little House events! To learn more about Little House on the Prairie, Visit www.littlehouseontheprairie.com Facebook/Instagram/TikTok: Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez  https://www.paclanticcreative.com/ Producer: Tony Sweet www.ubngo.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/little-house-on-the-prairie-50th-anniversary-podcast--6055242/support.