Melissa Gilbert Upset Over Live Event Promotion for ‘Little House on the Prairie’ 50th Anniversary

Melissa Gilbert Expresses Outrage Over Promoter’s 50th Anniversary Events for Little House on the Prairie

In a recent turning of events, Melissa Gilbert is voicing her displeasure regarding a promoter’s push for live events commemorating the 50th anniversary of the beloved television series Little House on the Prairie. Gilbert, 60, who famously portrayed Laura Ingalls Wilder on the NBC show from 1974 to 1983, has labeled these events a “shocking affront” to the show’s loyal fanbase.

The actress granted her presence at a California festival in March but found herself unable to continue the tour. The real issue emerged when she discovered that organizer Jack Bishop and his company, Gravel Road Markets LLC, were still advertising her participation and inaccurately claiming she was a co-producer of the events. Gilbert expressed her frustration, stating that fans were purchasing tickets under the false impression that she would be there. In response, she took to social media to clarify her position, stating unequivocally, “I will not work with anyone who does this. Period – full stop.”

Adding to her grievances, Gilbert cited several complaints from attendees who experienced poor quality at some Gravel Road events. She remarked, “From what I understand, it became a waking nightmare. They ran out of food. He oversold tickets. He didn’t pay the vendors.”

Charlotte Stewart, a former co-star from Little House on the Prairie, joined Gilbert in expressing concerns about the events. Many ex-cast members, including Alison Arngrim, Karen Grassle, Dean Butler, and Matthew Labyorteaux, collectively agreed not to participate in any future events organized by Gravel Road, citing “poorly organized and executed” conditions. They also demanded the removal of their names and likenesses from all promotional materials.

Gilbert further criticized Gravel Road for promoting these actor-less events as “sold out” instead of acknowledging their cancellation. She concluded, “I think it really sheds a terrible light on the brand.” Fans and former cast members alike are left hoping for better representation of the cherished series in future events.