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Can You Recognize This 70’s Child Star at an Off-Broadway Event?

BBG News

This 70’s child actress once starred on a beloved American Western drama television series. 

On Tuesday, the 60-year-old celebrity appeared dramatically different during a press gathering at an Off-Broadway theater in New York City for the reopening of the play, “Still.

The individual who opted for tranquility on a farm instead of the bustling Hollywood scene, presented an elegant appearance in a flowery dress combined with a bold red velvet jacket.

Her hair, styled in an elegant updo, was a shade of blond, and she adorned herself with various pieces of jewelry.

Instead of heavy makeup, she chose a more subtle approach to accentuate her features, finishing off the ensemble with a pair of earthy-toned boots.

Can you guess who this actress is? 

That’s right, it’s Little House on the Prairie alum Melissa Gilbert.

From 1974 through 1983, I had the privilege of portraying the beloved character Laura Ingalls Wilder across more than 200 episodes on that highly-acclaimed TV series.

Back in September, it became known that Gilbert would make a special appearance in a Hallmark series, marking a return to the spotlight almost eleven years after choosing a rural lifestyle over Hollywood.

In the upcoming 12th season of “When Calls The Heart,” which is set to air in 2025, the actress will make a guest appearance for a span of two episodes as part of the series.

The character Georgie McGill, as stated in a recent press release, will reveal a surprising aspect of her past to one particular resident of Hope Valley.

Gilbert’s appearance can also be linked to “Little House on the Prairie,” as the executive producer of “When Calls the Heart” is Michael Landon Jr., the son of the late Michael Landon, who was famously known for his role as Pa in the classic TV series.

In a recent statement, Kelly Garrett, Vice President of Programming at Hallmark Media, pointed out similarities between the series “When Calls the Heart” and “Little House on the Prairie.” According to her, both shows feature ‘endearing and captivating tales that center around themes of optimism, interpersonal relationships, and frontier resilience.’

It was appropriate that the initial group to learn about this exceptional news were the dedicated followers of the show, affectionately known as Hearties – individuals who have enthusiastically supported the series season after season, contributing significantly to its success.

‘The atmosphere surrounding the group is buzzing with excitement as they prepare to hear this news, and we eagerly anticipate their meeting with Georgie next year.’

The news follows Gilbert’s disclosure that she moved away from LA in 2013 to focus on growing older, distancing herself from the demanding and unattainable standards of beauty commonly imposed on actresses within Hollywood’s glamorous industry, even though she had achieved significant success there.

She shared with People that she experienced every challenge living in Los Angeles is akin to working at a shopping mall 24/7 – every pressure was encountered.

In the bustling world of commerce, I’m not an exception. Whenever I step into a restaurant, it seems like everyone there takes notice, their eyes curiously following my entrance.

For a female actor, it’s constantly challenging to face constant scrutiny, curiosity, and competition. This intense environment places significant pressure on maintaining a slim figure and youthful appearance, which often makes it tough to feel at ease with one’s body as the natural aging process takes its toll.

Are you planning on growing old gracefully and contentedly, or do you intend to resist it, possibly compromising your health, feeling uneasy about the process of aging, and viewing yourself as flawed due to your increased age?

‘I had to get out of there [L.A.], because it felt like I was not being authentically myself.’ 

Actress who played Anne Frank in the Diary of Anne Frank, currently wedded to Timothy Busfield, is blessed with two sons. The elder one, Dakota, aged 35, is from her previous marriage with Bo Brinkman, while the younger one, Michael, aged 28, is from her subsequent union with Bruce Boxleitner.

Following her move from California to Michigan, and later on to New York, she mentioned that her worries seemed to vanish once she left California behind.

For a span of five years in Michigan, everything came to a halt for me. During this time, I paused all my activities and dedicated myself entirely to achieving optimal physical and emotional well-being.

‘And I think that shows, ‘Yes, I’m aging, but it’s not a curse — it’s a blessing.”

Gilbert has a clothing collection called Modern Prairie.

The actress also models for the brand.

Earlier last year, she mentioned that each item we produce, crafted alongside remarkable artisans, is one-of-a-kind and significant. It embodies our creative vision as well as the dedication they put into their work,” she stated.

As a devoted enthusiast, I can’t help but share my excitement about the Modern Prairie website! Bursting with an array of unique items, from charming linens and intricate ceramics to stylish aprons and delightful toys, there’s something for everyone that is sure to brighten your day. Have you taken a peek yet? I strongly suggest you wander over to Modern Prairie without delay, as these exclusive finds are proving incredibly popular and selling swiftly!

In November she launched an app for her Modern Prairie lifestyle brand targeted toward older women.

She cofounded Modern Prairie with retail and merchandising expert Nicole Haase.

In a conversation with People, Gilbert expressed that the retail sector has often overlooked women like us – our spending potential and inclination towards it.

In a rather confined environment, an elderly woman found herself often overlooked and stereotyped. At times, she was seen as a harmlessly absent-minded senior, while on other occasions, she appeared to be someone prickly and best avoided. It’s evident that there is far more depth and complexity to her personality than such narrow portrayals suggest.

The contemporary Prairie, aiming to realize Gilbert’s idea of a ‘place for women to bond’, has unveiled its mobile application too.

Gilbert emphasized the importance of establishing a community where women can feel supported. They should understand that they never have to face challenges alone; there will always be individuals ready to guide them, lead the way, or provide assistance when necessary.

In the 1970s, Gilbert played the character Laura Ingalls Wilder, who was known as ‘Half Pint’, in the TV show “Little House on the Prairie”. This television series was based on the popular book series of the same name written by Laura Ingalls Wilder.

50 years ago, in March 1974, the television series “Little House on the Prairie” first appeared on screen with a special pilot episode, and this year marks its golden jubilee.

Gilbert remarked, “Some individuals persistently think I’m as young as twelve years old. Yet, I shall forever embody the spirit of a child, filled with curiosity and frolicking in open spaces. There’s an essence of ‘Little Pint’ within me that never fades. However, we all grow older with time.

Under the Modern Prairie label, you’ll find apparel and household items that draw inspiration from the values of love, community, and family as embodied in Little House. These thoughtfully crafted pieces are produced by businesses owned or run by women.

Gilbert lives on a 14-acre farm with husband Busfield.

Gilbert mentioned, “It’s a joy for us to tackle our fun, small tasks side by side, such as cleaning up the chicken coop, providing them with snacks, and engaging with the dogs.

‘We frequently engage in backgammon games, share cooking tasks, and find comfort in simply sitting side by side, regardless of location. Essentially, we cherish spending time together.’

Gilbert and Busfield tied the knot in 2013, and she attributes his continuous support as a key factor in her decision to age gracefully.

Gilbert expressed that it’s inspiring to be with someone who says, “I accept and appreciate you just as you are,” in response to moments like these: When I mentioned, “I might decide to stop dying my hair,” he replied, “I can’t wait to see your natural color. This is thrilling!”, and when I shared, “I think about removing my breast implants permanently,” he encouraged me with a simple, “Go for it!

In their lives, both Gilbert and Busfield found themselves divorced for the second time before they began a new romantic relationship together.

Following their wedding, Gilbert and Busfield relocated to a beautifully renovated Victorian house in Howell, Michigan, in August 2013. However, they subsequently moved to a captivating 14-acre cottage nestled in the Catskill Mountains of New York.

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2025-01-22 11:20

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