Crafting a new version of a beloved classic TV show can be tricky. Fans recall the original and make inevitable comparisons. Sometimes they connect readily with the modern reboot. Other times, they give a disappointed thumbs-down. That said, Little House On The Prairie is getting the reboot treatment, courtesy of Netflix.
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The cherished first version starring Michael Landon, Karen Grassle, Melissa Gilbert, Melissa Sue Anderson, and several others aired from 1974 to 1983. Based on the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder and set in the late 1800s, it quickly found its way into the hearts of viewers. Wholesome and often heartwarming, the series became a cherished, family-friendly favorite. What do we know about the ambitious new edition which launched on Thursday, July 9? Will the actors measure up to the original cast?
The Showrunner of the New 'Little House' Feels That They Picked the Right Actors
Per People, the Netflix reboot features Luke Bracey in the role of Charles Ingalls, Crosby Fitzgerald plays Caroline Ingalls, Alice Halsey is Laura Ingalls, and Mary Ingalls is depicted by Skywalker Hughes. "Great chemistry" was a prime criterion for choosing the actors to portray Charles and Caroline, said showrunner Rebecca Sonnenshine.
"That was really [what we were] looking for, a great chemistry," explaining that "the real Charles and Caroline were madly in love." Furthermore, she noted, "That was something that was so appealing to me about this story ... It's a love story about a family, but it's also a love story between Caroline and Charles."
She is especially keen on Luke Bracey. Sonnenshine observed, he's "such a special actor." Additionally, Bracey "embodies everything you need in a Pa."
The actor's authenticity was another plus in his favor. Sonnenshine gushed, "He's got a gentleness, but he's also very rugged. I can totally picture him on the prairie, for real. Even before we had him out there, I'm like, 'He could build a log cabin.'"
Crosby Fitzgerald Seems Like a Surefire Hit as Caroline
Sonnenshine is equally enthused about the actress playing Caroline Ingalls. "She's strong. She's actually very funny; she's got great timing. She's really beautiful and real and feels so connected to her [TV] kids. And I think when you watch it as an audience member, you feel very connected to Caroline and she feels so connected to Luke. They have a great chemistry."
The showrunner is just as excited about the impact that promising young stars Alice Halsey and Skywalker Hughes will have in their respective roles. Speaking of the reboot's overall chances of success, Rebecca Sonnenshine forecast, "...I ...think that it will introduce Little House to a whole new group of people."
