Alison Arngrim weighs in on Netflix’s Little House revival—new Nellie advice, book twists, and why Landon’s legacy is safe.
Why Is Alison Arngrim Not Fearing the Netflix Reboot?
“Don’t call it a reboot—no one’s touching Michael Landon’s magic,” warns Arngrim.
The actress behind Little House’s infamous Nellie Oleson spills that Netflix’s “transformed adaptation” ditches the 70s vibe to mine Laura Ingalls Wilder’s original books.
Think Dracula remakes: “Some flop, some soar—we’ll see!”
How Will the New Show Differ From the Classic Series?
Gone are Landon’s inventions like Albert Ingalls. Netflix’s version rewinds to Laura’s early childhood, with The Boys alum Rebecca Sonnenshine steering.
“Timelines shift, characters merge—Nellie was three girls mashed into one!” Arngrim laughs. The tone? Unclear: “Will it feel like a gritty Western or a slow-burn drama? Stay tuned.”
Will Original Cast Members Make Cameos?
Nope—Arngrim confirms no OG Walnut Grove residents are suiting up. “We got a heads-up call, but it’s their rodeo now,” she says.
Fans might rage, but Arngrim shrugs: “Kirk isn’t in every Star Trek, right? New doesn’t mean bad.”
What’s Her Advice for the New Nellie Oleson?
“Embrace the hate!” Arngrim barks. “If you aren’t getting soda thrown at you, you’re doing it wrong.” Channel Hopkins’ Hannibal Lecter: “No half-measures. Make ’em seethe.”
Her survival tip? “Separate yourself—they’ll hate Nellie, not you.”
Why Does Little House Still Comfort Audiences?
“Bread-baking during COVID? Pure Ingalls energy,” Arngrim muses. The show’s Great Depression roots and 70s recession debut cemented it as a crisis comfort blanket.
“People crave simplicity when life cracks—Landon knew that.”
Quick Facts: Little House Reboot
- Adaptation Focus: Wilder’s books, not the 70s series.
- Showrunner: The Boys’ Rebecca Sonnenshine at the helm.
- No Cameos: Original cast not returning—for now.
- Nellie’s Origin: Merged from three book bullies.
- Timeless Appeal: Depression-era grit resonates in crises.