‘Little House on the Prairie’ Icon Melissa Gilbert, James Spader Star in TV Movie Released on This Day in 1984
After “Little House on the Prairie” ended its successful television run, one of its stars went on to act in numerous other projects. That star was Melissa Gilbert. She famously played Laura Ingalls on the popular family television drama.
“Little House on the Prairie” aired from 1974 until 1983, according to IMDb.com. The year after the popular family drama came to an end, Gilbert starred in the made-for-television movie “Family Secrets.”
The production made its television debut on May 13, 1984, which is 37 years ago today! And, according to IMDb.com, the movie tells the story of “three generations of women” whose lives intertwine.
They decide to spend a weekend together. However, it becomes a very emotional event for all of them. And, the drama they go through during the weekend results in changes the characters will never forget.
Joining “The Little House on the Prairie” star in the television movie’s cast were Maureen Stapleton and Stefanie Powers.
The Twitter account Silver Age Television also reminded “Little House on the Prairie” fans of Melissa Gilbert’s appearance in “Family Secrets” on the anniversary of its debut on May 13.
“Three generations of women reunite for an emotional weekend that will change them forever in the made-for-television movie #FamilySecrets, starring #MaureenStapleton, #StefaniePowers, and #MelissaGilbert, airing on NBC this date in 1984,” the tweet share don Thursday read. It also included photos from the production.
In addition to acting in this television film, Stefanie Powers also worked as a writer on the production. Joining her in the writing room was Leonora Thuna. The television movie was directed by Jack Hofsiss.
Also part of the cast are well-known actors Gary Sinise and James Spader.
After ‘Little House on the Prairie’ Came to an End, Melissa Gilbert Continued Her Acting Career
Following the end of “Little House on the Prairie,” Melissa Gilbert pursued other projects. These, of course, included the television film “Family Secrets.” But, there were many other projects.
These other projects included Gilbert’s appearances on “Stand By Your Man” in 1992 and “Batman: The Animated Series” from 1992 through 1994. Gilbert also had work during 1994 and 1995 in “Sweet Justice” and during 1996 on “Babylon 5.”
In addition to her job as an actor, this “Little House on the Prairie” star also worked to help other actors. She had that opportunity thanks to her 2001 election as the president of the Screen Actors Guild. Her work with that organization must have been well accepted because two years later she was elected to her post for another two years.
