‘Terrible Light On The Brand’: Melissa Gilbert And Little House On The Prairie Cast Calls Out 50th Anniversary Organizer Over Event Cancellation Issue

As a lifestyle expert with a deep appreciation for television history and pop culture, I find myself deeply saddened by the recent turn of events surrounding the 50th anniversary celebrations of the beloved show “Little House on the Prairie.” Having grown up watching this iconic series, I hold it in high regard, much like many others who fondly remember the characters and their stories.


Melissa Gilbert, together with the cast of Little House On the Prairie, have expressed criticism towards the organizing committee of the celebrations commemorating the 50th anniversary since the show’s debut. They have specifically targeted Jack Bishop and his business, Gravel Road Markets LLC, for poor work quality.

The actors Melissa Gilbert, Alison Arngrim, Karen Grassle, Dean Butler, Charlotte Stewart, and Matthew Labyorteaux announced on September 6 that they will not participate in upcoming events scheduled in Tennessee, South Dakota, Missouri, and Texas. This decision was made following their perception of disorganized events held in Connecticut and Pennsylvania previously.

Gilbert explained to People how the event in Pennsylvania turned into a disastrous ordeal on foot. She stated, “They ran out of sustenance, he oversold tickets, and he failed to compensate the vendors.” She asserted that attendees had to utilize their mobile phones’ flashlights because there wasn’t enough illumination in the dining section.

Instead of cancelling the announced events, Bishop never officially made a declaration to that effect. Moreover, the cast members stated that Bishop did not withdraw the remaining tour dates, specifically those in Branson and Corsicana. The situation was, however, misleadingly portrayed on Eventbrite as if the events were “sold out.

Gilbert expressed, “It’s truly an appalling insult to the followers of ‘Little House on the Prairie.’ As a hypothetical owner of the intellectual property, I can tell you I’d be furious. I believe this action significantly tarnishes the reputation of the brand.

In the October 1st press statement, the cast announced that they had written a letter to Bishop, expressing their decision to no longer associate themselves or allow use of their endorsement for any projects managed by Gravel Road Markets, either directly or through control of media outlets. Furthermore, they requested the removal of promotional materials bearing their names.

According to People’s report, the cast requested Bishop to take away their names and images from merchandise and promotional materials related to any future Little House on the Prairie 50th Anniversary events that are either created or publicized by Gravel Road Markets, LLC.

Attendees at the event in Keystone, South Dakota discovered no activity taking place there. Gilbert shared with People that Bishop had deceitfully claimed her as a co-producer of the events, which she found deeply upsetting. She explained, “Fans were purchasing tickets under the impression I would be present, but I was aware that I wouldn’t be.

In a clear and conversational manner: Gilbert, who portrayed Laura Ingalls, spoke out strongly against Bishop. She stated that following an event in Simi Valley, California in March 2024, Bishop publicized the event to fans, implying that Gilbert would be there, but her name was not listed on the schedule.

The TV series “Little House on the Prairie” was broadcast from 1974 to 1983, earning itself a timeless place in television lore and solidifying its status as a significant piece of American popular culture. It featured actors like Michael Landon, Karen Grassle, Melissa Gilbert, Melissa Sue Anderson, among others.

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2024-10-05 13:22