Los Angeles, California – “Little House on the Prairie” actress Melissa Gilbert recently paid tribute to her co-star, Jack Lilley, who passed away at the age of 91 at the Motion Picture & Television Fund retirement home. Remembering their time working together on the beloved TV series, Gilbert took to social media to honor Lilley, who portrayed a stagecoach driver and other characters on the show.
Sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram, Gilbert reflected on Lilley’s impact on her life, recalling how he taught her how to ride a horse when she was young. She fondly remembered his patience and willingness to indulge her requests to go riding, emphasizing the close bond they shared while filming “Little House on the Prairie.”
In addition to reminiscing about their time on the show, Gilbert also highlighted Lilley’s extensive career in film and television. She mentioned their reunion on a Western pilot called “Then Came Jones,” in which they worked alongside a then-unknown actress, Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Despite the pilot not being picked up, Gilbert expressed gratitude for the experience and the opportunity to work with Lilley once again.
Describing the serendipitous nature of their reunion on set, Gilbert recalled the familiarity of working at Paramount Studios and Big Sky Ranch, where they had filmed “Little House on the Prairie.” She shared a heartwarming anecdote of being greeted by Lilley’s playful nickname, showcasing the fond memories they created together both on and off the screen.
Concluding her tribute with a quote from Shakespeare, Gilbert bid farewell to Lilley, expressing her love and gratitude for their time together. The actress affectionately signed off as “Your Halfpint,” a nod to the endearing nickname Lilley had for her. The touching tribute serves as a reminder of the lasting bonds forged between cast members and the impact of their work on audiences around the world.