Little House on the Prairie remains one of the most beloved Western drama series in television history, captivating audiences with its heartfelt storytelling, memorable characters, and talented cast. Since the show’s conclusion in 1983, many of its stars have passed away, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans worldwide.
Michael Landon (Charles “Pa” Ingalls)
Michael Landon, who played the caring and principled patriarch Charles Ingalls, first rose to fame as Little Joe Cartwright in Bonanza (1959-1973). His role in Little House on the Prairie (1974-1983) further cemented his place in television history. After the series ended, he starred in Highway to Heaven (1984-1989). Landon was married three times and had nine children. He passed away from pancreatic cancer on July 1, 1991, at the age of 54.
Katherine MacGregor (Harriet Oleson)
Katherine MacGregor portrayed Harriet Oleson, the town’s gossip and a strong-willed businesswoman. Before Little House, she had roles in Love of Life (1951) and Mannix (1970-71). After the show, she retired from television and focused on local theater. MacGregor was married twice and died of congestive heart failure on November 13, 2018, at the age of 93.
Richard Bull (Nels Oleson)
Richard Bull played Nels Oleson, the kindhearted and patient husband of Harriet. His career included roles in The Thomas Crown Affair (1968) and The Andromeda Strain (1971). Following Little House, he appeared in Knots Landing (1985) and ER (1999). Married for 66 years to Barbara Collentine, Bull died from pneumonia on February 3, 2014, at the age of 89.
Victor French (Isaiah Edwards)
Victor French, known for his role as the rugged but kind Isaiah Edwards, had a long career in television, appearing in The Donna Reed Show (1962) and Bonanza (1962-1971). After Little House, he joined Michael Landon in Highway to Heaven. French was married twice and had three children. He died of lung cancer on June 15, 1989, at the age of 54.
Kevin Hagen (Dr. Hiram Baker)
Kevin Hagen played Doc Baker, the town’s dedicated doctor and veterinarian. His career included roles in Bonanza (1961-67) and Gunsmoke (1958-1968). After Little House, he appeared in General Hospital (1986) and Matlock (1987). Hagen was married three times and had one son. He died of laryngeal cancer on July 9, 2005, at the age of 77.
Dabbs Greer (Reverend Robert Alden)
Dabbs Greer, who portrayed Reverend Alden, had an extensive film and television career, with roles in The Twilight Zone (1962-63) and Lassie (1954-65). After Little House, he appeared in The Green Mile (1999). Never married and without children, Greer died from cardiovascular disease on April 28, 2007, at the age of 90.
Shannen Doherty (Jenny Wilder)
Shannen Doherty, who played Jenny Wilder, gained further fame through Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-94) and Charmed (1998-2001). She was married three times and battled breast cancer for years before passing away on July 13, 2024, at the age of 53.
Patty Maloney (Alice Bates)
Patty Maloney made a brief but memorable appearance in Little House as Alice Bates. She later starred in The Little Rascals (1982-83) and Dumbo’s Circus (1985-86). Married to Joseph Vitek until his death in 1968, Maloney passed away on March 31, 2025, after multiple health issues.
As time passes, the legacy of Little House on the Prairie and its remarkable cast continues to live on in the hearts of fans, preserving a cherished chapter in television history.
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