Growing up in the 70s and 80s, I eagerly followed the exploits of Laura Ingalls and her family, both in her classic books and the beloved TV show starring Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbert. So, when I heard a new Little House on the Prairie adaptation was coming to the small screen, some skepticism crept into my mind. Why mess with a classic?
However, the new series—releasing July 9th on Netflix—pleasantly surprised me. The show features a talented new cast, starring Luke Bracey (Elvis, Point Break) as Charles Ingalls, Crosby Fitzgerald (Abbot Elementary) as Caroline Ingalls, Alice Halsey (Lessons in Chemistry) as Laura, and Skywalker Hughes (Joe Pickett) as Mary.
Little House does more than just chronicle the history of the American West; it carries a timeless appeal. This Netflix adaptation introduces a new generation to the Ingalls family, their joys and struggles, highlighting themes that resonate just as powerfully today as they did when I was a kid—though I appreciate them much more as an adult.
Drawing inspiration from the third book in the series, the first season follows the Ingalls family as they leave the Big Woods to settle in Independence, Kansas. This journey immediately pulls viewers into their story. The characters’ distinct personalities emerge early on: Laura is inquisitive, adventurous, and a bit wild, wielding a slingshot to hunt for dinner; Mary is industrious, rule-abiding, and tasked with keeping her younger sister in line; Charles and Caroline share a deep affection, showing their love in countless small ways, though a subtle underlying tension hints at some mysterious family discord that drove them west.
The show tackles universal themes like family, friendship, creativity, and discovery. However, it does not shy away from heavier issues, confronting family trauma, addiction, racism, and the white settler’s treatment of Native Americans.
The unfolding adventures of the Ingalls family in Kansas arrive through young Laura’s eyes. She does not understand why her mother dislikes Mr. Edwards (Warren Christie), the neighbor helping Charles build their house. She questions why the adults around her seem uncomfortable with her growing friendship with Good Eagle (Wren Zhawenim Gotts) and other children from the nearby Osage tribe. She also wonders why Emily (Barrett Doss), the Black woman who manages the general store, is excluded from the town ladies’ social circle.
One of the wonderful aspects of this first season of Little House on the Prairie is watching characters overcome their initial prejudices by getting to know one another as individuals rather than stereotypes. As Ma and Pa Ingalls get to know Good Eagle’s parents (Meegwun Fairbrother and Alyssa Wapanatahk), and even become friends, the two young girls form a close bond. Caroline experiences a similar shift toward Mr. Edwards; once she realizes that past trauma clouds her judgement, she welcomes him into their family circle.
This is a beautiful focus for a new generation experiencing Little House for the first time. If only we all took the time to truly know those we consider “other”—to hear their stories and realize just how much we share beneath our preconceived notions.
Little House on the Prairie debuts on Netflix on July 9th.