The beloved American television drama series, Little House on the Prairie, has been a staple of family entertainment for decades. Based on the autobiographical books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, the show premiered in 1974 and ran for nine seasons, captivating audiences with its wholesome values, memorable characters, and historical significance. If you’re wondering what network Little House on the Prairie is on, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll delve into the show’s broadcasting history, its current availability, and what makes it a timeless classic.
A Brief History of Little House on the Prairie
Before we dive into the show’s broadcasting journey, let’s take a brief look at its history. Little House on the Prairie was developed by Blanche Hanalis, based on the Little House series of children’s books written by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The show premiered on September 11, 1974, on NBC and was produced by Ed Friendly Productions and NBC Productions. The series starred Michael Landon as Charles Ingalls, Karen Grassle as Caroline Ingalls, and Melissa Gilbert as Laura Ingalls.
The Show’s Original Run
During its original run, Little House on the Prairie aired on NBC from 1974 to 1983. The show was a huge success, ranking among the top 30 shows in the Nielsen ratings for six of its nine seasons. The series finale, “Hello and Goodbye,” aired on March 21, 1983, and was watched by 10.2 million viewers.
Where to Watch Little House on the Prairie Today
So, what network is Little House on the Prairie on today? The show is currently available on various platforms, including:
- UPtv: UPtv (formerly GMC TV) has been airing Little House on the Prairie since 2015. The network offers a daily schedule of episodes, as well as occasional marathons.
- MeTV: MeTV, a digital subchannel network, also airs Little House on the Prairie as part of its weekday lineup.
- Amazon Prime Video: All nine seasons of Little House on the Prairie are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
- Hulu: Hulu offers a selection of Little House on the Prairie episodes, although not the entire series.
- Peacock: NBCUniversal’s streaming service, Peacock, offers a limited selection of Little House on the Prairie episodes for free with ads.
Streaming Options
In addition to the networks mentioned above, Little House on the Prairie is also available to purchase or rent on various streaming platforms, including:
- Amazon Video: Individual episodes and seasons can be purchased or rented on Amazon Video.
- Google Play: Little House on the Prairie is available to purchase or rent on Google Play Movies & TV.
- iTunes: The show can be purchased or rented on iTunes.
- Vudu: Little House on the Prairie is available to purchase or rent on Vudu.
Why Little House on the Prairie Remains a Timeless Classic
So, what makes Little House on the Prairie a timeless classic? Here are a few reasons:
- Wholesome Family Values: The show’s emphasis on family, hard work, and self-reliance resonates with audiences of all ages.
- Historical Significance: Little House on the Prairie offers a unique glimpse into American history, exploring themes such as westward expansion, pioneer life, and the challenges faced by early settlers.
- Memorable Characters: The show’s characters, including the Ingalls family, Nellie Oleson, and Mr. Edwards, are iconic and beloved by audiences worldwide.
- Timeless Storylines: The show’s storylines, which tackle issues such as poverty, illness, and social injustice, remain relevant today.
The Show’s Impact on Popular Culture
Little House on the Prairie has had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous adaptations, spin-offs, and references in other TV shows and films. The show’s influence can be seen in:
- TV Shows: Shows such as Gilmore Girls, The Waltons, and Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman have been compared to Little House on the Prairie for their wholesome, family-friendly content.
- Films: The show’s success has inspired numerous film adaptations, including the 2005 TV movie, Beyond the Prairie: The True Story of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
- Books: The Little House series of books has been translated into over 45 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide.
Conclusion
Little House on the Prairie is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its wholesome values, memorable characters, and historical significance. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the show, there are numerous ways to watch Little House on the Prairie, including UPtv, MeTV, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. So, grab some popcorn, gather the family, and experience the magic of Little House on the Prairie for yourself.
A Final Thought
As we reflect on the show’s enduring popularity, it’s clear that Little House on the Prairie is more than just a TV show – it’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
What is Little House on the Prairie, and how did it originate?
Little House on the Prairie is a classic American television drama series that aired from 1974 to 1983. The show is based on the Little House on the Prairie series of children’s books written by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The books are semi-autobiographical, drawing from Wilder’s childhood experiences growing up in a pioneer family in the late 19th century. The television series was developed by Michael Landon, who also starred as Charles Ingalls, the patriarch of the Ingalls family.
The show’s origin can be attributed to the popularity of Wilder’s books, which have been widely read and loved by generations of children and adults alike. The television adaptation aimed to bring the stories to life, exploring themes of family, friendship, love, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The show’s success can be attributed to its wholesome and nostalgic portrayal of a bygone era, which resonated with audiences worldwide.
Who played the main characters in Little House on the Prairie?
The main characters in Little House on the Prairie were played by a talented ensemble cast. Michael Landon played Charles Ingalls, the father, while Karen Grassle played Caroline Ingalls, the mother. Melissa Gilbert played Laura Ingalls, the second daughter, who was the central character and narrator of the show. Melissa Sue Anderson played Mary Ingalls, the eldest daughter, and Lindsay and Sidney Greenbush played Carrie Ingalls, the youngest daughter.
The cast also included other notable actors, such as Victor French, who played Isaiah Edwards, a close family friend, and Richard Bull, who played Nels Oleson, the mercantile owner. The cast’s chemistry and performances were instrumental in bringing the characters to life and making the show a beloved classic.
What were some of the notable episodes and storylines in Little House on the Prairie?
Little House on the Prairie featured many notable episodes and storylines throughout its nine-season run. One of the most iconic episodes is “The Lord is My Shepherd,” which tells the story of Laura’s spiritual awakening. Another notable episode is “The Music Box,” which explores Mary’s struggles with her blindness. The show also tackled tough issues, such as racism, prejudice, and disability, in episodes like “The Wisdom of Solomon” and “The Craftsman.”
The show’s storylines often focused on the Ingalls family’s struggles and triumphs as they navigated life on the American frontier. The show also featured many heartwarming moments, such as the family’s celebrations and traditions, which added to the show’s nostalgic charm. The show’s writers did an excellent job of balancing lighthearted and serious storylines, making it a show that appealed to a wide range of audiences.
How did Little House on the Prairie impact American television and culture?
Little House on the Prairie had a significant impact on American television and culture. The show was one of the first family dramas to air on television, paving the way for future family-oriented shows. The show’s wholesome and nostalgic portrayal of a bygone era resonated with audiences, making it a staple of American television. The show also tackled tough issues, such as racism and disability, in a way that was accessible and relatable to a wide range of audiences.
The show’s impact can also be seen in its influence on popular culture. The show’s characters, such as Laura and Mary, have become cultural icons, and the show’s themes and storylines have been referenced and parodied in countless other TV shows and films. The show’s legacy can also be seen in its continued popularity, with the show remaining a beloved classic among audiences of all ages.
What awards and accolades did Little House on the Prairie receive during its run?
Little House on the Prairie received numerous awards and accolades during its run. The show was nominated for 17 Emmy Awards and won four, including Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Melissa Gilbert’s performance as Laura Ingalls. The show also won two Golden Globe Awards and was nominated for several others. In addition, the show was awarded several Humanitas Prizes for its writing and several Young Artist Awards for its child actors.
The show’s cast and crew were also recognized for their work on the show. Michael Landon was awarded several awards for his writing, directing, and acting on the show, including a Peabody Award and a Television Critics Association Award. The show’s success can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of its cast and crew, who brought the show to life and made it a beloved classic.
How has Little House on the Prairie been received by audiences and critics over the years?
Little House on the Prairie has been widely acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. The show has been praised for its wholesome and nostalgic portrayal of a bygone era, as well as its tackling of tough issues, such as racism and disability. The show’s characters, such as Laura and Mary, have become cultural icons, and the show’s themes and storylines have been referenced and parodied in countless other TV shows and films.
Despite some criticism for its sentimental and sometimes simplistic portrayal of life on the American frontier, the show remains a beloved classic among audiences of all ages. The show’s continued popularity can be seen in its syndication and streaming on various platforms, as well as its influence on popular culture. The show’s legacy is a testament to its enduring appeal and its place in American television history.
Is Little House on the Prairie still available to watch today, and how can I access it?
Yes, Little House on the Prairie is still available to watch today. The show has been syndicated and is currently airing on several television networks, including Hallmark Channel and INSP. The show is also available to stream on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Paramount+. In addition, the show’s DVDs are available for purchase on online marketplaces, such as Amazon.
For fans who want to own a piece of the show’s history, there are also several box sets and collector’s editions available, which include behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and other bonus features. The show’s continued availability is a testament to its enduring popularity and its place in American television history.