One of my favorite episodes of LHOTP was the episode where "Ma" was left alone while "Pa" took the girls on a trip..Ma had scratched her leg on a wire on the wagon and developed a life threatening infection with no one around to help her. The episode was almost entirely about Karen Grassle and displayed just what a fine actor she is. I can't imagine the show without her.
Karen Grassle appears to be so truthful, and it's really refreshing to listen to her speak the facts about working on Little House, and her working relationship with Michael Landon. Her role as a loving wife and mother was just perfect. I can't imagine anyone else ever playing Mrs. Ingalls. Karen Grassle brought so much warmth to her character on the wonderful Little House on the Prairie.
@@cindyrussell1581 he didn't hide it.... I mean, he was alive when it all came out, but it was common behavior. It was only a big deal because he played the "heroic", wholesome characters.
I loved this series as a young woman and I’ve been re-watching the entire series lately again because they were a few I had missed and it’s just such a great series especially with the crazy world we live in today, it is stress relieving.
She is still serene and beautiful. She was my model for motherhood - kind, gentle, smart, loving, strong and faithful. Thank you for a wonderful performance Ms. Grassle❤
Ms. Grassle provided the stabilizing balance to Landon’s energy. She brought out the best in everyone she worked with, especially the child actors. One of the all time best TV mom’s EVER! Love this lady!
I often wish people would watch this show with the world today. Little House. Has such great values. Family, God, always exemplifies doing the "right " thing. Great interview. Thank you
I watched it as a little girl in the early 80s. It's on Peacock now so I recently started to watch it again. I didn't really understand many of the issues back then, I was only about 6 or 7. Watching it now, I'm blown away at just how it's still so very relatable in this day & age. Absolutely brilliant show.
One of the channels I get is playing reruns of Little House. I watch it over and over even though I've seen these episodes dozens of times. So much better than the garbage on TV now. In my opinion Karen Grassle was the heart of the show.
My daughter watched all the seasons at age 10. She is 12 now. She loves it and she read all of the books also. But then again. I'm an older mom and watched the series back in the 70s so I steered my daughter to watch old school series.
Karen Grassle is now 82 years old- so 81 at the time of this interview. Wow. I love how she shares her recovery but looking like that at 81 is also an inspiration :)
Karen Grassle, you may not ever know how much the Little House show meant for many of us. I watch the DVDs still, and I'm 67 years old. I grew up in an abusive home and the Little House show meant so much to me. It has been a huge dose of wholesomeness that has helped me to comprehend love and kindness. You may not have liked the trouble you went through doing the show, but I appreciate it more than you know! Little House has been a gift to me.
I love ma and the cast, ma was like my ma, I am bipolar with severe anxiety and depression and when I get so bad I have to watch ma it is so soothing to me till this day, I still watch at least 1a day except when I'm not feeling good ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
One of the best interviews I've heard with Karen. Thank you for allowing her to tell her true authentic story. It's stories like these that we need to be heard.
I grew up with Little House and secretly wished she was my mother. She is such a beautiful soul. Having an abusive mother, she showed me how lovely, kind & proper a woman should act. I always loved her character. If she only knew how many people she touched. 💖
OMG! I too wished that both of them were my parents. She was the perfect mother and he was the perfect father! Too bad it was just acting but very believable!
I felt that way about Micheal Landon my male guardian was 👿My sister his wife was much like Karen Grassle kind and gentle. So I understand your comment.
After my best friend of 15 years and boyfriend for four years decided to end our relationship without warning, I went into a very dark mind space. I took out my Little House DVDs, and I watched the entire series twice. I cannot begin to tell you how much this had helped me to begin my healing journey. I remembered sitting with my mother as a child every Monday evening at 8 pm and watching the program with her. It almost felt as if she were sitting with me as we watched, cried, and laughed through every episode. My mom had passed 15 years before. Yet, I felt her presence. Thank you, Karen. Your gentleness was a true inspiration for me when I became a mother. Your common sense, your warmth, your smile were with me as my son grew. My son and I had read the LH series of books together, and we had discussed the program's topics as well as in the books. Do you know what my son had said to me at the age of eight? He told me, Mama, you are just like this ma on this show! This meant the world to me. To be as sweet, kind and gentle as you...? Wow. What a compliment. So, thank you, Karen. You are a beautiful example of a wonderful mother. I am very sorry for your struggles, and I will be searching for your book today. I hope you are doing well. Big hug 🫂❤ 😘
I watched Little House when I was a girl. Now I am 55, becoming a kindergarten teacher and have found myself watching Little House again. It's amazing to watch this as a child and then as a woman, to see all the nuances and real world issues that arise when you are an adult. You are an amazing woman, you have touched so many people's lives in the most incredible way. You have made an incredible impact. To hear you now speak of the issues with Michael Landon and how you have chosen to move through them, shows I can still learn from you now. just like I did when I was a "Half-Pint" all those years ago. Much love to you.
So gracious that Karen cleared the gossip on the extent of Michael’s drinking on the set. The interviewer was just repeating all the false narratives that have existed for years. Her overall honesty is amazing and refreshing. I am thankful she shared all the details of her struggles with alcoholism. Many people will benefit from listening to this.
My favorite episode was Season 1, episode 2 called “Country Girls”. Laura and Mary had to write essays and present them in their class. Laura hadn’t yet learned to write well enough, so she ad-libbed her speech, and it was about “My Mother”. The final line of Laura’s speech was “Her smile is the last thing I see when I go to bed at night, and it’s the first thing I want to see in the morning”.
Karen, thank you for this interview. Sadly I do see Michael Landon in a different light now but did love Little House and the moral value that it portrayed. I really missed you in the last series which was very sad not to see you in it. You had an amazing role as Carolyn 😀
"Little House on the Prairie" and "The Waltons" were two awesome TV series that taught family values. Both included close relationships between the parents and grandparents with their children. Both of the series included the Bible, God, and church and always "doing the right thing." Thank goodness I have purchased both series and I can watch them anytime I want to do so. Thank you for this interview.
@@harperstacey9604 The Waltons were only poor because the series took place during the Great Depression. In reality, prior and subsequent to it, they weren't that poor. They DID own their own business, a mountain and don't forget that huge house they had!
They also taught the value and importance of family and togetherness. As well as hard work and staying away from what we might call 'wicked' people. So they usually were not hurt by others.
This is one of my favorite shows and at 68 I still watch it today. I had no idea there were issues with Landon and some of the cast. It truly is shocking and heart breaking for me. I loved every one of the cast members and thought they played their characters beautifully. Thank you for this interview. RIP to everyone who has passed 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
I Agree about the Episode of Ma staying home to bake as many Pie's as possible to Raise money for a neighboring Town. That Episode gave Karen the opportunity to Really SHOW her TALENT. That is one of my favorite episodes of the whole Series. She looked like she was in true pain from the infection she had gotten from a scratch. She went out into the storm to put the horses in the barn. ❤❤❤ This episode is so very Clear in my memory because of Karen's TALENT ❤.
Wow I never knew Karen had a problem with alcohol. I am so glad that she has not let it ruin her life. She still has the beautiful smile. I wish her well.
Interviewer- Excellent work I’m very impressed with the graciousness and dignity you show Karen- you are such a humble wonderful Intelligent woman You are really a professional and I can hear you have integrity
She's amazing. I could listen to Karen for hours. Thanks Craig for being a fabulous interviewer as well. I loved the way that you let the person talk without any interruptions. Stellar job.
I must be one of the few people who’d never seen LHOTP until recently when I began watching with my kids. We adore it and I was curious to know more about the actors. It was a shock to learn that the main characters bore no resemblance to their actual personas because you’re transported while watching the episodes, which is a testimony to their acting and the high production value of the show. I appreciated Ms. Grassle’s candor and bought her book yesterday.
Sadly I agree that this show wouldn’t have been that great without Ma, the Doctor and Mrs. Olson. Their roles gave depth to the story and I am sorry that Landon didn’t appreciate them enough to financially pay them their worth. 💕🙏
@@marig6184, he never dealt with his own issues. As I recall reading, even though both of his parents were essentially secular, he sort of came from an interfaith family. His father had some kind of Jewish background, and his mother had an Irish Catholic background. He also witnessed his mother’s frequent bouts of suicidal psychosis due to Depression-he actually said that he thought that his mother’s sticking her head in an oven was normal because of how much he witnessed it. He also, to the understandable grief of his children, unfortunately rejected Jesus even in his final years.
@@janetduncan87 we are all human. I dislike when people speak up once people die. Because the person who has died is unable to give there interpretation of what occurred.
I loved her in LHOTP, she was really great & believable character. She did imprint on me & being a strong woman & mother was what I wanted to be too. I actually met Michael Landon at a street fair & was chatting him up about our jewelry & offered him a discount if he decided he wanted anything. I had absolutely no idea who he was, looked kind of familiar but he was just a good looking older guy with a great smile to me. It was a co-worker that was all excited when she came up after he moved on, "Do you know who that was?? Michael Landon!" I'd never seen him with his hair with natural gray only dyed darker on the show! He was still healthy at that time.
She is amazing. We who tined in all those years knew she was the back bone of the entire family. Salt of the earth! A very candid and honest woman. I wish her the best for all the days of her life.
I always thought Ma was the most beautiful mother on the prairie! Seriously….how gorgeous is she!! I thank you so much for doing this interview! How wonderful to get to visit with her after all this time!!❤
Love the Prairie stories. I loved Michael Landon's character so much, I started calling my dad "PA". I was 7 years old when the series appeared and my "PA" bought all the Little House books for me. I still enjoy reading them. When I was small my character was very much similar to Laura and I had a strong connection to the family on the Prairie. So sad we lost most of the actors especially my TV "PA" Michael Landon. Rest in eternal peace you lovely people.❤❤❤
My favorite scene on LHOTP was when Laura had to recite a paper in front of parents and classmates. Laura spoke about all her mother did for her and their family. When Ma realizes Laura is talking about her Grassle's face goes through so many changes -from being in the spotlight, to being proud, to accepting the gratitude of Laura praise etc.That is one of the best acting I have ever seen!
I'm so glad she refers to her alcoholism as an illness. So many people think you can just stop drinking and that it never works. I'm so glad she got herself help so she could get well. ❤️
I never viewed LHOTP reruns until a couple weeks ago I began to. I'm drawn to the episodes like a magnet. Almost constantly on. These decades later I have a greater appreciation for the series. The values instilled is so lost today. I love LHOTP. Caroline portrayal to me was grace, humility and the Ingles rock.
I've seen every single episode many many times! Caroline Ingalls is a strong great character! Absolutely love her! Karen Grassle is a wonderful actress!
I never knew as well. Wow just great acting even with all the drama. I also wondered why Harriet was not in the final movies, now I know why. But he seems like he had control issues. Still love the show, but now I need to watch for her cut scenes.
Unfortunately a lot of people involved in that show (I know one personally) that had issues with Landon because he was a womanizer and they took offence to that. They kept their thoughts from him about the subject. But they loved his family and didn't like what he was doing to them by acting like that.
$4k a week in the 70s. I wish my dad was paid that poorly. This was before the insane contracts that they get now. Landon was highly paid for LHOTP because he created it and in numerous roles made it happen.
@@MrSoulauctioneer Before you start rushing to the “woman overstepping her bounds” type rhetoric….Melissa Gilbert was making $62,500/ mo(at 750k/yr)! Did Melissa Gilbert (as a child) come up with the show? No. Or do any of the other stuff that you used as as a reason Michael Landon should not have paid Ma Ingalls more? No. So no $16,000/mo (Which would be 4k/wk) was not fair, in the least. Ma Ingalls was a main character like all the rest of them on the show. Not sure why such a pay disparity. But Landon was getting MUCH more than anyone else, assuming. So why was the mother on the show getting paid the same (or less) than the children? She, as an adult, would be putting in more work, as she said in her interview that “after the children left” every night, they would rehearse and collaborate on other parts of the show that the children wouldn’t be able to help with. Michael Landon seemed to be a misogynist or at the least, very petty, in this particular event, anyway. She should have not been paid that much different than her “daughter” on the show. And certainly not by almost $60,000/mo less! And I don’t care what your dad did for work that he wasn’t getting 4k/mo in the 70s. Most weren’t! Has zero to do with fairness in this particular situation.
Same!! It's a justice issue. Michael Landon's pay was increasing, why shouldn't the rest of the casts increase too? The show wouldn't be the same without her. So pay her what she's worth!
Thank you for the interview treat. I’m a 1974 pioneer fan! I never missed an episode on Weds and then when the show was aired Mondays on NBC.! In 1985, we visited Walnut Grove. This show has always meant so much to me. Just about every episode featured some kind of loss, and handling coping mechanisms. The family always pulled through, and recovered through their love, and faith. Many of us as children went through our own difficulties, and this magical show offered “hope” to so many of us children. We love you and thank you for that, Karen! ❤
I absolutely loved Karen Grassle playing "Ma" on Little House! I loved her sense of resiliency and perseverance in that role! I hope I get to meet Ms. Grassle soon!
My goodness is Karen Grassle naturally beautiful! Even in her prairie wear as Caroline "Ma" Ingalls, she was gorgeous and exuded great warmth and strength. I remember thinking so as a child and, like many people, wished she were my mother (no offense to either of my moms). Karen is so intelligent and interesting-I'd love to see her on the stage. Thanks, Craig, for another wonderful interview!
ive always loved you Karen forever. i wish i had a mom like you growing up, and my life turned out better a lot earlier in life. way was meant to be. love you so much xxx God Bless You Always n keep you
What a wonderful interview of Karen Grassle. She was such an outstanding actress in Little House on the Prairie. Enjoyed all episodes. My mother use to just love to watch this show. Today I continue to watch it, I find myself giggling in all the episodes that my mom did - love it!
What a good interview, I really enjoyed it. The questions were delivered in a calm and measured way and Karen was allowed the time she needed to answer them. This shows professionalism and respect from the interviewer, which is getting rare these days with other talk show hosts/interviewers. I look forward to watching more on this channel.
Karen; Thks f your candid and frank analysis of the adaptation as it gives honest assessment of the pressures all were dealing with in production.; NEVER came accoss on screen as u proved t b MA' t a whole generation. Still Beautiful not only in appearance but words 2.
I just bought and watched the entire Little House series while recovering from surgery this winter. I just love that show. Karen Grassle is such a God-send; beautiful, smart, honest, and kind, and portrayed a mother we would all love to have. Thank you so much for this interview and thank you Karen. WE LOVE YOU!!!
Watching you as a child, you made a big impression on me. Caroline was my role model for being the ideal mom and instilled such a love of America for me. Thank you for your honesty and sticking to your roles.. you impacted a generation!!!❤
I Met Johnny Cash in Pewaukee Wisconsin. He was here for State Fair he went fishing with John Jr on Pewaukee Lake. My dad came home and said he was at Smokies Bait shop a man and son came in my Dad said with Makeup and a guitar you'd look like Johnny Cash. He said hold on bought bait and shook my dad's hand Nice to Meet you Iàm Johnny Cash. I made my dad go back to town and yes we meet Johnny Cash, his son wasn't happy he reminded his son We would not have what we have without these people we will stay until their all been met and appreciated. Which I still remember to this day it had to be hard for his son to understand at the time me to now age 61 to this day it ment the world to me and he did appreciate all of us Iàm sure his son gets it also.poor kid ❤ June and John Beautiful People also their Kids. Your Lucky to have worked with these Special People.
Landons mistakes have been out there for all to see once he passed.. but no one can deny that he loved hard,, and everyone loved him.. he hurt people but suffered from his own childhood drama.. and being out in the public.. mistakes seems bigger than what we all make as well in our personal lives..
Another wonderful interview. I didn't know much about Karen Grassle, but, with this interview, I learned that she is smart, and kind, and has a lovely sense of humour. And, she looks fabulous. Her short hair really suits her. Thank you for sharing!
What a lovely woman. I remember feeling frustrated with "Ma's" negative attitude too. I was almost exactly Melissa Gilbert's age when the show came out. Even at that young age, a few episodes in I realized how hard the situation must have been on Caroline Ingalls. I had already read the full book series and had some insight into it. I warmed up to her. My heart goes out to Karen for her struggles, but she is admirable in her strength and determination! The world lost a true "star" when she passed away.
So glad you READ the books. Only a few episodes were true to Ingall"s life. Many bad mistakes re: historical accuracy of costumes hair etc. Still an enjoyable TV series, clean script, nice roles. But it always amgered me when they strayed from the books.
What a fantastic interview. It’s such a pleasure to hear the answers in full without the interviewer constantly jumping in with inane comments as is sadly the way many interviewers are wont to do these days. Congratulations on a job well done. 10 out of 10 👍👌
I loved and still love Little House. I also love truth behind the real people playing the characters. Karen brought us both. The fantasy and innocence of olden days of America. And brings reality of real people, struggles she and we all have in reality. Thank you so much Karen! I love you even more. Berkeley rebel. I’d of never guessed. lol. Love all of your sharing of real life. God bless you always. ♥️♥️
As of November 2024 I watch Little house Every Single Day & I still love it !!! Can’t believe Micheal was so terrible towards the female’s still love him
I love you Karen.❤ I come from an alcoholic family as well. I'm glad you're doing well now. Thank you for all of the great memories I have of watching you on television as a child.
What a classy and wonderful woman! I love how she wouldn't let bitterness consume her. She really embodied the character of Carolyn Ingells! She's a great actress! I wish I could see her in some other roles.
What a lovely, genuine and insightful interview with Karen Grassly! I enjoyed hearing about the honest stories, not only of her life and the hard work it took, but the interactions and struggles with Michael Landon. Also those stories of other actors told with human kindness and compassion. It was a pleasure. Thank you.
A beautiful, and courageous woman. I did not know she had written her book. I grew up on Little House, felt like they were part of my family!! Wonderful interview. 🖖🤗👍😉
What a beautiful woman. I will admit that I never watched much Little House growing up but I was aware of Karen and admired her. Seeing her now I realize she was worthy of that admiration. Brillant interview.
@@colette6984 Yes. Every word. His financial compensation for them was theirs to turn down and walk away from if they didn't like it. And as the main creative force on the show he was certainly well within his lane to decide what scenes would be cut or not. These actors almost always complain about $$$ and not having enough exposure. I assure you they didn't claim they were going to bellyache about the pay or what scenes where cut when they auditioned for the job.
@@nash7752 It's the honest way to look at it. It's telling that you would enable those looking for a handout after the financial risk has been taken by others and most of the success depended on the fame of others.
![[LIVE] : ONE ลุมพินี 88 | คู่เอก "ป้อมเพชร vs อัสลามจอน"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1ZqTVVbMgbo/mqdefault.jpg)
![ทุกครั้งที่หลับตา (Lucid Dream) - AYLA's [ Official MV ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/4i1OBAQyv58/mqdefault.jpg)
One of my favorite episodes of LHOTP was the episode where "Ma" was left alone while "Pa" took the girls on a trip..Ma had scratched her leg on a wire on the wagon and developed a life threatening infection with no one around to help her. The episode was almost entirely about Karen Grassle and displayed just what a fine actor she is. I can't imagine the show without her.
SAME! ❤️
Yes, that was such a good episode!
Me too. My most memorable episode. So poignant!!
Yes, that and the episode where Carrie was in the well were incredible performances by Karen Grassle. She should have won an Emmy.
She was amazing - loved her 😊
Karen Grassle appears to be so truthful, and it's really refreshing to listen to her speak the facts about working on Little House, and her working relationship with Michael Landon. Her role as a loving wife and mother was just perfect. I can't imagine anyone else ever playing Mrs. Ingalls. Karen Grassle brought so much warmth to her character on the wonderful Little House on the Prairie.
Thank you for your comment TheTruthBeTold. Greatly appreciated
It's weird what people believe, well then again he isn't to defend himself
@@cindyrussell1581 he didn't hide it.... I mean, he was alive when it all came out, but it was common behavior. It was only a big deal because he played the "heroic", wholesome characters.
@@j.y.3604 well that's yr opinion, which everyone's untitled to.
I loved this series as a young woman and I’ve been re-watching the entire series lately again because they were a few I had missed and it’s just such a great series especially with the crazy world we live in today, it is stress relieving.
She is still serene and beautiful. She was my model for motherhood - kind, gentle, smart, loving, strong and faithful. Thank you for a wonderful performance Ms. Grassle❤
What a beautiful comment!!
I wholeheartedly agree. Thank you for sharing my thoughts. ❤
I agree wholeheartedly! Still a lovely lady! ❤️
I'm glad to see her healthy and at 81
by this interview
alert and positive.
Ms. Grassle provided the stabilizing balance to Landon’s energy. She brought out the best in everyone she worked with, especially the child actors. One of the all time best TV mom’s EVER! Love this lady!
@@j.y.3604 he was not easy that is for sure!
Put me right off Michael Landon
I often wish people would watch this show with the world today. Little House. Has such great values. Family, God, always exemplifies doing the "right " thing. Great interview. Thank you
Thank you for the comment Tony and we agree!
I watched it as a little girl in the early 80s. It's on Peacock now so I recently started to watch it again. I didn't really understand many of the issues back then, I was only about 6 or 7. Watching it now, I'm blown away at just how it's still so very relatable in this day & age. Absolutely brilliant show.
One of the channels I get is playing reruns of Little House. I watch it over and over even though I've seen these episodes dozens of times. So much better than the garbage on TV now. In my opinion Karen Grassle was the heart of the show.
Unfortunately that will never happen because Humanity continues digging their own grave deeper and deeper everyday
My daughter watched all the seasons at age 10. She is 12 now. She loves it and she read all of the books also. But then again. I'm an older mom and watched the series back in the 70s so I steered my daughter to watch old school series.
Karen Grassle is now 82 years old- so 81 at the time of this interview. Wow. I love how she shares her recovery but looking like that at 81 is also an inspiration :)
She's the age my parents would have been if they were still here.
Karen Grassle, you may not ever know how much the Little House show meant for many of us. I watch the DVDs still, and I'm 67 years old. I grew up in an abusive home and the Little House show meant so much to me. It has been a huge dose of wholesomeness that has helped me to comprehend love and kindness. You may not have liked the trouble you went through doing the show, but I appreciate it more than you know! Little House has been a gift to me.
Doesn’t look like Ma!!!
Very well said and ditto!
Same here. I'm 58, male, and saw Landon and Grassle (and much of the cast) as models for what could be.
I love ma and the cast, ma was like my ma, I am bipolar with severe anxiety and depression and when I get so bad I have to watch ma it is so soothing to me till this day, I still watch at least 1a day except when I'm not feeling good ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Me too.
Such a lovely interview. Karen sounds just as calm and reassuring as the days she was taking care of the children on the Prairie.
I love her intelligence and inclusive regard. The way she values people. Unfiltered, witty and consistently gracious. She's a keeper.
C'est la plus belle et la plus tendre karen !!!!
She was wonderful...in the series...very nice lady...perfect for the part...gentle lady like...
One of the best interviews I've heard with Karen. Thank you for allowing her to tell her true authentic story. It's stories like these that we need to be heard.
Wow she’s 77 in this interview. So beautiful. She has aged gracefully & beautifully. Well-spoken and soft- spoken.
I grew up with Little House and secretly wished she was my mother. She is such a beautiful soul. Having an abusive mother, she showed me how lovely, kind & proper a woman should act. I always loved her character. If she only knew how many people she touched. 💖
Me too love. ❤️
OMG! I too wished that both of them were my parents. She was the perfect mother and he was the perfect father! Too bad it was just acting but very believable!
I felt that way about Micheal Landon my male guardian was 👿My sister his wife was much like Karen Grassle kind and gentle. So I understand your comment.
Many people have told Michael Learned (Olivia Walton) the same thing.
I felt the same way about Pa on Little House. I thought he was a lovely father.
This is a terrific interview. Karen Grassle is gracious, charming and a darn fine actress. Thanks for bringing this to her many fans, Celebrity Drop
After my best friend of 15 years and boyfriend for four years decided to end our relationship without warning, I went into a very dark mind space.
I took out my Little House DVDs, and I watched the entire series twice.
I cannot begin to tell you how much this had helped me to begin my healing journey. I remembered sitting with my mother as a child every Monday evening at 8 pm and watching the program with her. It almost felt as if she were sitting with me as we watched, cried, and laughed through every episode. My mom had passed 15 years before. Yet, I felt her presence.
Thank you, Karen. Your gentleness was a true inspiration for me when I became a mother. Your common sense, your warmth, your smile were with me as my son grew.
My son and I had read the LH series of books together, and we had discussed the program's topics as well as in the books.
Do you know what my son had said to me at the age of eight? He told me, Mama, you are just like this ma on this show! This meant the world to me. To be as sweet, kind and gentle as you...? Wow. What a compliment.
So, thank you, Karen. You are a beautiful example of a wonderful mother. I am very sorry for your struggles, and I will be searching for your book today. I hope you are doing well.
Big hug 🫂❤ 😘
Nice tribute! 💖
I watched Little House when I was a girl. Now I am 55, becoming a kindergarten teacher and have found myself watching Little House again. It's amazing to watch this as a child and then as a woman, to see all the nuances and real world issues that arise when you are an adult. You are an amazing woman, you have touched so many people's lives in the most incredible way. You have made an incredible impact. To hear you now speak of the issues with Michael Landon and how you have chosen to move through them, shows I can still learn from you now. just like I did when I was a "Half-Pint" all those years ago.
Much love to you.
So gracious that Karen cleared the gossip on the extent of Michael’s drinking on the set. The interviewer was just repeating all the false narratives that have existed for years. Her overall honesty is amazing and refreshing. I am thankful she shared all the details of her struggles with alcoholism. Many people will benefit from listening to this.
Alison Arngrim 's book is full of gossip.
I watched every single episode when I was growing up. This was one of my all time favorites.
My favorite episode was Season 1, episode 2 called “Country Girls”. Laura and Mary had to write essays and present them in their class. Laura hadn’t yet learned to write well enough, so she ad-libbed her speech, and it was about “My Mother”. The final line of Laura’s speech was “Her smile is the last thing I see when I go to bed at night, and it’s the first thing I want to see in the morning”.
Yes!!! I remember that as such a sweet moment. And all "The Oleson's" see how real love and family looks. Not money, just love and respect.
Didn't she take the fabric for her new dress and use it to make the girls dresses for the presentation?
@@bricksloth6920 Yes, she certainly did!!
This is my favorite as well...
“Country girls” was a great episode and Laura’s line was a tear jerker, as was the formula!
Karen, thank you for this interview. Sadly I do see Michael Landon in a different light now but did love Little House and the moral value that it portrayed. I really missed you in the last series which was very sad not to see you in it. You had an amazing role as Carolyn 😀
What a beautiful spirit. Thank you both.
"Little House on the Prairie" and "The Waltons" were two awesome TV series that taught family values. Both included close relationships between the parents and grandparents with their children. Both of the series included the Bible, God, and church and always "doing the right thing." Thank goodness I have purchased both series and I can watch them anytime I want to do so. Thank you for this interview.
Thank you for your comment Judy. Glad you enjoyed our interview with Karen.
The ingalls and the waltons were poor families. From Ms. Harper Stacey.
@@harperstacey9604 Yes, they were poor.
@@harperstacey9604 The Waltons were only poor because the series took place during the Great Depression. In reality, prior and subsequent to it, they weren't that poor. They DID own their own business, a mountain and don't forget that huge house they had!
They also taught the value and importance of family and togetherness. As well as hard work and staying away from what we might call 'wicked' people. So they usually were not hurt by others.
I adore this woman….I have watched her on repeats of LHOTP for years. She is a classic. Love her ❤️
And very last message, I promise, but to KAREN personally, “THANK YOU,” for fighting and advocating for equal rights for everyone.
This is one of my favorite shows and at 68 I still watch it today. I had no idea there were issues with Landon and some of the cast. It truly is shocking and heart breaking for me. I loved every one of the cast members and thought they played their characters beautifully. Thank you for this interview. RIP to everyone who has passed 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
I'm 58 and still watch LHOTP...! Wonderful interview, thank you!
I'm 57 and still watch LHOTP too ‼️❤️
55 and still watch, and yes, the joy and tears always follow
Karen Grassle as Caroline Ingalls was the best TV mom in the history of television.
I personally think Olivia Walton from the Waltons was the best TV mom
Yep, Little House on the Prairie and the Waltons had the two best TV moms. After Roseanne of course.
@@michaelharrington75 and Frankie Heck 😁
And June cleaver!
but apparently, she was nothing like his character in real ife...
I Agree about the Episode of Ma staying home to bake as many Pie's as possible to Raise money for a neighboring Town. That Episode gave Karen the opportunity to Really SHOW her TALENT. That is one of my favorite episodes of the whole Series. She looked like she was in true pain from the infection she had gotten from a scratch. She went out into the storm to put the horses in the barn. ❤❤❤ This episode is so very Clear in my memory because of Karen's TALENT ❤.
Agreed! Just watched this episode (again) last week. She’s a fantastic actress & woman. ❤️
You are a wonderful interviewer. It shows. Ms. Grassle is rather quiet; you did a great job with her.
Wow I never knew Karen had a problem with alcohol. I am so glad that she has not let it ruin her life. She still has the beautiful smile. I wish her well.
She definitely was a great actor. The chemistry between them on the show was so believable. I loved this show.
Interviewer- Excellent work
I’m very impressed with the graciousness and dignity you show
Karen- you are such a humble wonderful
Intelligent woman
You are really a professional and I can hear you have integrity
She's amazing. I could listen to Karen for hours. Thanks Craig for being a fabulous interviewer as well. I loved the way that you let the person talk without any interruptions. Stellar job.
Our pleasure Kelly - from another Kelley!
Good wasn't he.
Miss Karen is such an accomplished actor! Her sweet demeanor has always translated so well in her career. What a classy lady!😊
I loved watching Karen as "Ma". She was a natural at that role and so believable.
I must be one of the few people who’d never seen LHOTP until recently when I began watching with my kids. We adore it and I was curious to know more about the actors. It was a shock to learn that the main characters bore no resemblance to their actual personas because you’re transported while watching the episodes, which is a testimony to their acting and the high production value of the show.
I appreciated Ms. Grassle’s candor and bought her book yesterday.
Sadly I agree that this show wouldn’t have been that great without Ma, the Doctor and Mrs. Olson. Their roles gave depth to the story and I am sorry that Landon didn’t appreciate them enough to financially pay them their worth. 💕🙏
He had an ex-wife, he had to pay alimony to and child support. He cheated on the wife he cheated with. Handsome man but,it's short on faithfulness.
Landon was a pill when no one was looking.
Greed is a sad thing.
@@marig6184, he never dealt with his own issues. As I recall reading, even though both of his parents were essentially secular, he sort of came from an interfaith family. His father had some kind of Jewish background, and his mother had an Irish Catholic background. He also witnessed his mother’s frequent bouts of suicidal psychosis due to Depression-he actually said that he thought that his mother’s sticking her head in an oven was normal because of how much he witnessed it. He also, to the understandable grief of his children, unfortunately rejected Jesus even in his final years.
@@janetduncan87 we are all human. I dislike when people speak up once people die. Because the person who has died is unable to give there interpretation of what occurred.
I loved her in LHOTP, she was really great & believable character. She did imprint on me & being a strong woman & mother was what I wanted to be too. I actually met Michael Landon at a street fair & was chatting him up about our jewelry & offered him a discount if he decided he wanted anything. I had absolutely no idea who he was, looked kind of familiar but he was just a good looking older guy with a great smile to me. It was a co-worker that was all excited when she came up after he moved on, "Do you know who that was?? Michael Landon!" I'd never seen him with his hair with natural gray only dyed darker on the show! He was still healthy at that time.
The impact that show had on my life is something that can’t be measured. I thank you.
I just love the person of Karen Grassle....so intelligent, gracious, honest, and genuine. I loved hearing the stories of behind the scenes on LHOP....
That was one of the most interesting and heart warming interviews I have ever seen. Thank you to both of you! I will have to get your book, Karen.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I just loved the humble strength she showed as Caroline!!
Finally, someone actually knows her character's name!
She is amazing. We who tined in all those years knew she was the back bone of the entire family. Salt of the earth! A very candid and honest woman. I wish her the best for all the days of her life.
Loved how she clarified the vodka story from the mouth that never shuts up. Good on you Ms Grassle.
@@GSD1963 who has the mouth that never shuts up, please? I want to understand🙏
I always thought Ma was the most beautiful mother on the prairie! Seriously….how gorgeous is she!! I thank you so much for doing this interview! How wonderful to get to visit with her after all this time!!❤
Our pleasure!
She’s just as gracious, wise and authentic in real life as her character was on LHOTP. Love her. I must read her book.
no she was not back then
I am 75 and my husband 85. We are watching Little House for the first time and blown away how great it is. ❤
You're never too late to start to watch LHOTP! Thank you for sharing @robinviolette5907
I'm 68 and just got into it
I'm 53, and re-watching.
I'm 53, and re-watching.
I'm 53, and re-watching.
Love the Prairie stories. I loved Michael Landon's character so much, I started calling my dad "PA". I was 7 years old when the series appeared and my "PA" bought all the Little House books for me. I still enjoy reading them. When I was small my character was very much similar to Laura and I had a strong connection to the family on the Prairie. So sad we lost most of the actors especially my TV "PA" Michael Landon. Rest in eternal peace you lovely people.❤❤❤
The most heart touching series'ever on television was Little House. Ma was a beautiful character and Karen played her brilliantly.
I just love Karen Grassle!! I don't agree with her on everything, but she's such a genuine person and candid! She'll always be loved!!❤
What a sweet lady and natural beauty she is. Thanks for catching us up with her.
This is a great interview! I appreciate & respect Karen Grassle more than ever thanks to your work. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
My favorite scene on LHOTP was when Laura had to recite a paper in front of parents and classmates. Laura spoke about all her mother did for her and their family. When Ma realizes Laura is talking about her Grassle's face goes through so many changes -from being in the spotlight, to being proud, to accepting the gratitude of Laura praise etc.That is one of the best acting I have ever seen!
She is beautiful. Great interview, interviewer and questions. Karen so honest and gracious. 🙏
Very very well stated!!
I'm so glad she refers to her alcoholism as an illness. So many people think you can just stop drinking and that it never works. I'm so glad she got herself help so she could get well. ❤️
Alcoholism is NOT an illness -- it is a bad behavior. It is NOT an illness like cancer or pneumonia.
I never viewed LHOTP reruns until a couple weeks ago I began to. I'm drawn to the episodes like a magnet. Almost constantly on. These decades later I have a greater appreciation for the series. The values instilled is so lost today. I love LHOTP. Caroline portrayal to me was grace, humility and the Ingles rock.
I've seen every single episode many many times! Caroline Ingalls is a strong great character! Absolutely love her! Karen Grassle is a wonderful actress!
Karen Grassle was my favorite character in the series, she’s such a great actress. Thank you for sharing such a great interview with us viewers.
She’s an amazing actress. Her character in the show brought so much. I never new she had any issues behind the scenes with Michael Landon.
I never knew as well. Wow just great acting even with all the drama. I also wondered why Harriet was not in the final movies, now I know why. But he seems like he had control issues. Still love the show, but now I need to watch for her cut scenes.
Unfortunately a lot of people involved in that show (I know one personally) that had issues with Landon because he was a womanizer and they took offence to that. They kept their thoughts from him about the subject. But they loved his family and didn't like what he was doing to them by acting like that.
@@oregonwanderer I know he left his wife for the makeup artist, but I don't believe he was a womanizer. I just figured he fell in love with her.
Love how honest she is, a true good human.
Love this lady. I am sorry to hear that she wasn't paid appropriately.
🙄🙄🙄🙄
Why - she’s rich!
$4k a week in the 70s. I wish my dad was paid that poorly. This was before the insane contracts that they get now. Landon was highly paid for LHOTP because he created it and in numerous roles made it happen.
@@MrSoulauctioneer Before you start rushing to the “woman overstepping her bounds” type rhetoric….Melissa Gilbert was making $62,500/ mo(at 750k/yr)! Did Melissa Gilbert (as a child) come up with the show? No. Or do any of the other stuff that you used as as a reason Michael Landon should not have paid Ma Ingalls more? No. So no $16,000/mo (Which would be 4k/wk) was not fair, in the least. Ma Ingalls was a main character like all the rest of them on the show. Not sure why such a pay disparity. But Landon was getting MUCH more than anyone else, assuming. So why was the mother on the show getting paid the same (or less) than the children? She, as an adult, would be putting in more work, as she said in her interview that “after the children left” every night, they would rehearse and collaborate on other parts of the show that the children wouldn’t be able to help with. Michael Landon seemed to be a misogynist or at the least, very petty, in this particular event, anyway. She should have not been paid that much different than her “daughter” on the show. And certainly not by almost $60,000/mo less! And I don’t care what your dad did for work that he wasn’t getting 4k/mo in the 70s. Most weren’t! Has zero to do with fairness in this particular situation.
Same!! It's a justice issue. Michael Landon's pay was increasing, why shouldn't the rest of the casts increase too? The show wouldn't be the same without her. So pay her what she's worth!
Thank you for the interview treat. I’m a 1974 pioneer fan! I never missed an episode on Weds and then when the show was aired Mondays on NBC.! In 1985, we visited Walnut Grove. This show has always meant so much to me. Just about every episode featured some kind of loss, and handling coping mechanisms. The family always pulled through, and recovered through their love, and faith. Many of us as children went through our own difficulties, and this magical show offered “hope” to so many of us children. We love you and thank you for that, Karen! ❤
Thank you for the comment Denise. The Waltons was such an iconic show and meant so much to many people.
I absolutely loved Karen Grassle playing "Ma" on Little House! I loved her sense of resiliency and perseverance in that role! I hope I get to meet Ms. Grassle soon!
I need to get this in here, I admire Karen. There are wonderful hearts/souls here on Earth, and Karen is absolutely one of them.
My goodness is Karen Grassle naturally beautiful! Even in her prairie wear as Caroline "Ma" Ingalls, she was gorgeous and exuded great warmth and strength. I remember thinking so as a child and, like many people, wished she were my mother (no offense to either of my moms). Karen is so intelligent and interesting-I'd love to see her on the stage. Thanks, Craig, for another wonderful interview!
What a wonderful , thoughtful and very articulate person. It was a joy watching her. Must get hold of the book. ❤
One of the best television series in history. Excellent series
ive always loved you Karen forever. i wish i had a mom like you growing up, and my life turned out better a lot earlier in life. way was meant to be. love you so much xxx God Bless You Always n keep you
She was stunningly beautiful with a warm smile
What a wonderful interview of Karen Grassle. She was such an outstanding actress in Little House on the Prairie. Enjoyed all episodes. My mother use to just love to watch this show. Today I continue to watch it, I find myself giggling in all the episodes that my mom did - love it!
Thank you for watching and for your comment.
What a good interview, I really enjoyed it. The questions were delivered in a calm and measured way and Karen was allowed the time she needed to answer them. This shows professionalism and respect from the interviewer, which is getting rare these days with other talk show hosts/interviewers. I look forward to watching more on this channel.
Thank you for your comment HEA and glad you have found us.
You Will always be my TV Mom.. Love you.. Child of the Seventies here !! Little house on the Prairie Kept me going and raised me! Thank you!!
Karen and Michael Learned from The Waltons were two of the best TV moms. I actually used to get the two of them mixed up.
Karen; Thks f your candid and frank analysis of the adaptation as it gives honest assessment of the pressures all were dealing with in production.; NEVER came accoss on screen as u proved t b MA' t a whole generation.
Still Beautiful not only in appearance but words 2.
I just bought and watched the entire Little House series while recovering from surgery this winter. I just love that show. Karen Grassle is such a God-send; beautiful, smart, honest, and kind, and portrayed a mother we would all love to have. Thank you so much for this interview and thank you Karen. WE LOVE YOU!!!
Watching you as a child, you made a big impression on me. Caroline was my role model for being the ideal mom and instilled such a love of America for me. Thank you for your honesty and sticking to your roles.. you impacted a generation!!!❤
I Met Johnny Cash in Pewaukee Wisconsin. He was here for State Fair he went fishing with John Jr on Pewaukee Lake. My dad came home and said he was at Smokies Bait shop a man and son came in my Dad said with Makeup and a guitar you'd look like Johnny Cash. He said hold on bought bait and shook my dad's hand Nice to Meet you Iàm Johnny Cash. I made my dad go back to town and yes we meet Johnny Cash, his son wasn't happy he reminded his son We would not have what we have without these people we will stay until their all been met and appreciated. Which I still remember to this day it had to be hard for his son to understand at the time me to now age 61 to this day it ment the world to me and he did appreciate all of us Iàm sure his son gets it also.poor kid ❤ June and John Beautiful People also their Kids. Your Lucky to have worked with these Special People.
Landons mistakes have been out there for all to see once he passed.. but no one can deny that he loved hard,, and everyone loved him.. he hurt people but suffered from his own childhood drama.. and being out in the public.. mistakes seems bigger than what we all make as well in our personal lives..
Another wonderful interview. I didn't know much about Karen Grassle, but, with this interview, I learned that she is smart, and kind, and has a lovely sense of humour. And, she looks fabulous. Her short hair really suits her. Thank you for sharing!
Remember when he starting cutting her out. I didn't like how Michael cut her and others out.
What a lovely woman. I remember feeling frustrated with "Ma's" negative attitude too. I was almost exactly Melissa Gilbert's age when the show came out. Even at that young age, a few episodes in I realized how hard the situation must have been on Caroline Ingalls. I had already read the full book series and had some insight into it. I warmed up to her. My heart goes out to Karen for her struggles, but she is admirable in her strength and determination! The world lost a true "star" when she passed away.
Shes alive she was just at the 50th festival
@@Mylittlerebornworld seriously? I must have seen one of those fake "star is dead" postings online. I hatecwhen that happens!
@@brandylou9132 me too
So glad you READ the books. Only a few episodes were true to Ingall"s life. Many bad mistakes re: historical accuracy of costumes hair etc. Still an enjoyable TV series, clean script, nice roles. But it always amgered me when they strayed from the books.
Wonderful memoir interview. How we as we get older can look back over our life time as though it is itself a movie. She is so frank. I am grateful
What a fantastic interview. It’s such a pleasure to hear the answers in full without the interviewer constantly jumping in with inane comments as is sadly the way many interviewers are wont to do these days. Congratulations on a job well done. 10 out of 10 👍👌
I an so glad to hear you speak out about alcoholism and the evilness of Landon and how it all interweaves together. FORGIVENESS
I loved and still love Little House. I also love truth behind the real people playing the characters. Karen brought us both. The fantasy and innocence of olden days of America. And brings reality of real people, struggles she and we all have in reality.
Thank you so much Karen! I love you even more.
Berkeley rebel. I’d of never guessed. lol. Love all of your sharing of real life.
God bless you always. ♥️♥️
Goodness, I grew up loving this woman so much. I was lucky to have a mother who had a similar disposition as her. 🥰
As of November 2024 I watch Little house Every Single Day & I still love it !!! Can’t believe Micheal was so terrible towards the female’s still love him
I love you Karen.❤ I come from an alcoholic family as well. I'm glad you're doing well now. Thank you for all of the great memories I have of watching you on television as a child.
When a Berkeley grad can flawlessly bring you, Caroline Engalls, you know she’s got to be an amazing actress.
Best tv mom.
Totally agree with you. She gave a flawless performance.
I grew up watching Bonanza then Little House on the Prairie loved Both shows and loved Highway to Heaven, loved The Characters on LHOTP.
What a classy and wonderful woman! I love how she wouldn't let bitterness consume her. She really embodied the character of Carolyn Ingells! She's a great actress! I wish I could see her in some other roles.
She was not bitter.
What a lovely, genuine and insightful interview with Karen Grassly! I enjoyed hearing about the honest stories, not only of her life and the hard work it took, but the interactions and struggles with Michael Landon. Also those stories of other actors told with human kindness and compassion. It was a pleasure. Thank you.
Thank you Dolores for your comment.
We've been home schooling..for years..I've read through the books at least 5 times..your my favorite roll..and you did a fantastic job 👏
This is a good interview. I see her now as an actress looking back on her role as Mrs. Ingalls. Very interesting and great to listen to
A beautiful, and courageous woman. I did not know she had written her book. I grew up on Little House, felt like they were part of my family!! Wonderful interview. 🖖🤗👍😉
Excellent interview….such a glorious lady.
What a beautiful woman. I will admit that I never watched much Little House growing up but I was aware of Karen and admired her. Seeing her now I realize she was worthy of that admiration. Brillant interview.
Zoya ,and The Miracle Worker are my favorite movies.
I'm sad to hear that her and the actors got treated so badly. But hearing that she didn't hold on to bitterness is lovely.
Getting to work on a hit TV show isn't being treated badly. Thousands and thousands seek those parts.
@@caelachyt Did you listen to her speak about Michael treated them?
@@colette6984 Yes. Every word. His financial compensation for them was theirs to turn down and walk away from if they didn't like it. And as the main creative force on the show he was certainly well within his lane to decide what scenes would be cut or not. These actors almost always complain about $$$ and not having enough exposure. I assure you they didn't claim they were going to bellyache about the pay or what scenes where cut when they auditioned for the job.
@@caelachyt That's a very poor way to look at the situation. It's telling that this is your takeaway from her experience!
@@nash7752 It's the honest way to look at it. It's telling that you would enable those looking for a handout after the financial risk has been taken by others and most of the success depended on the fame of others.