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Cast of Little House on the Prairie

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Michael Landon stars as Charles Ingalls, Karen Grassle as Caroline Ingalls, and Melissa Gilbert as Laura Ingalls in the beloved adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s ‘Little House on the Prairie‘ books.

  • NBC (originally); broadcast in the UK on various channels including Channel 4 and Five (now Channel 5)
  • 1974–1983
  • 9 seasons
  • TV series
  • 17 cast

Main cast

  • Charles IngallsMichael Landon1–9Main
  • Caroline IngallsKaren Grassle1–9Main
  • Laura IngallsMelissa Gilbert1–9Main
  • Mary IngallsMelissa Sue Anderson1–9Main
  • Nels OlesonRichard Bull1–9Main
  • Harriet OlesonKatherine MacGregor1–9Main
  • Willie OlesonJonathan Gilbert1–9Main
  • Dr. Hiram BakerKevin Hagen1–9Main
  • Grace Snider EdwardsBonnie Bartlett1–8Main

Supporting cast

  • Isaiah EdwardsVictor French1–9Supp
  • Albert IngallsMatthew Labyorteaux5–9Supp
  • Andy GarveyPatrick Laborteaux6–9Supp
  • Percival DaltonSteve Tracy6–9Supp
  • Nancy OlesonAllison Arngrim3–9Supp
  • Reverend Robert AldenDabbs Greer1–9Supp

Guest & voice

  • Mr. StandishTed Gehring1–2Guest
  • Aunt Polly (younger)Hermione Baddeley3Guest

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About this cast

Little House on the Prairie is a classic American family drama series that aired from 1974 to 1983, based on the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The show follows the Ingalls family as they navigate life in the small pioneer town of Walnut Grove, Minnesota during the late 19th century. The three lead actors are Michael Landon as Charles Ingalls, Karen Grassle as Caroline Ingalls, and Melissa…

FAQs

Who plays Laura Ingalls in Little House on the Prairie?

Laura Ingalls is played by Melissa Gilbert for the entire run of the series (1974–1983).

Who plays Charles Ingalls in Little House on the Prairie?

Charles Ingalls is played by Michael Landon, who also served as a writer, producer, and occasional director on the show.

Is Little House on the Prairie based on true stories?

Yes, the series is loosely based on the autobiographical ‘Little House’ books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, which are inspired by her childhood experiences in the American Midwest in the late 1800s.

How many seasons of Little House on the Prairie are there?

The series originally aired for nine seasons from 1974 to 1983, with additional TV movies following the series finale.

Who plays Nellie Oleson in Little House on the Prairie?

Nellie Oleson is played by Alison Arngrim (sometimes credited as Allison Arngrim). She appeared as a regular from season 3 onward and is one of the most memorable characters.

Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026

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