Netflix’s Little House On The Prairie Takes Us Back To The Old West
One of the classic American TV shows of the 70s and 80s was Little House on the Prairie, which reinvigorated interest in the American Old West and was highly popular. Now, Netflix is bringing us a new version for the 2020s. Based directly on the original book series rather than a simple remake, the story follows a young girl, Laura, and her family as they settle in Kansas in the 19th century. Here’s all we know so far:
What is Little House on the Prairie about?
Netflix’s Little House on the Prairie is a reimagining of the classic book series by Laura Ingalls Wilder, rather than just a straight remake of the hugely popular 1970s TV series. The original stories are based largely on the author’s own childhood and adolescent experiences in 19th-century Midwest America. The new Netflix version operates on a similar premise, following the Ingalls family as they journey across the American frontier, attempting to build a new life for themselves while facing the considerable hardships and opportunities that arise when they ultimately settle on the Kansas prairie.
At the centre of the story is the young Laura Ingalls (Alice Halsey), a bright, curious and fiercely independent girl, based directly on the real Laura Ingalls. Laura is joined in the story by her parents, Charles (Luke Bracey) and Caroline (Crosby Fitzgerald), and her older sister Mary (Skywalker Hughes). Laura and her family encounter new communities, unfamiliar landscapes and the often life-threatening dangers of frontier life.
Showrunner Rebecca Sonnenshine has described the series as part family drama, part survival tale and part origin story of the American West. While the series celebrates the close-knit bonds of the Ingalls family, it also aims to offer a broader look at the people and cultures that helped shape the era. There are insights and interactions with other neighbouring settlers and indigenous peoples that add to the canvas of the American West.
Who else stars?
Netflix recently unveiled the show’s full trailer, which gives a first glimpse at the new cast and introduces us to the Ingalls Family. There are also plenty of shots of the vast and beautiful landscapes that serve as the show’s backdrop, which will surely be a draw in itself. The footage highlights both the beauty and the difficulties of frontier life, while emphasising the warmth and resilience of the Ingalls family.
Alongside Halsey, Bracey, Fitzgerald and Hughes, the ensemble cast includes Jocko Sims, Warren Christie, Meegwun Fairbrother and Alyssa Wapanatâhk, along with many others inhabiting the Kansas prairies.
When does it release?
The good news is we don’t have long to wait until Little House on the Prairie comes to screens, with it set to premiere globally on Netflix on 9th July, 2026. All eight episodes will also be available to stream immediately.
