Melissa Gilbert: How 'Raggedy' Look Got Her 'Little House' Role

Melissa Gilbert, known for her role as Laura Ingalls on the beloved television series "Little House on the Prairie," recently shared the story of how she secured the part. In a conversation on the "Hey Dude The 90s Called!" podcast, Gilbert recounted the audition process and the unexpected element that she believes ultimately won her the role.

According to Gilbert, her somewhat disheveled appearance played a significant role. She described herself as being "raggedy and dirty" during the audition, a state that she believes resonated with the casting directors. This contrasted with some of the other young actresses auditioning, who were perhaps more polished and presentable.

"Little House on the Prairie," based on the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, depicted the life of a pioneer family in the late 19th century. The character of Laura Ingalls was a young, adventurous girl who embraced the challenges and simple joys of rural life. Gilbert's ability to embody that spirit, even in her audition, clearly impressed the show's creators and helped her secure the role that would define her career.