• 'Little House on the Prairie' was mainly popular because of Michael Landon
  • He also appeared shirtless on occasion in the series
  • It had a very specific trigger, as Karen Grassle explains

'Little House on the Prairie' was produced from 1974 to 1983 and thrilled millions of people around the world. There were a total of 210 episodes in ten seasons.

Michael Landon (†54) was one of the most popular actors alongside Melissa Gilbert (58) on 'Little House on the Prairie'. On the show, the actor was attractive and sometimes even acted sexy - because of a certain person. 

Also interesting:

'Little House on the Prairie': Michael Landon wanted to be as popular as actor Burt Reynolds

Michael Landon harbored a secret grudge against acting legend Burt Reynolds (†82). Karen Grassle, 81, who played family mom "Ma Ingalls" in 'Little House on the Prairie', told the 'New York Post': "In the ’70s, Burt topped the list as the most desirable man in Hollywood. Mike was resentful and wanted to take his place."

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Burt Reynolds was one of the most sought-after actors of the seventies and early eighties

In the spring of 1972, Burt Reynolds posed nude for an issue of 'Cosmopolitan'. As a result, he suddenly became one of the hottest men in Hollywood and was considered a sex symbol.

That success bumped Michael Landon, who according to Grassle, wasn't pleased. For this reason, the actor, who also worked as a producer for 'Little House on the Prairie', is said to have shown his muscles at every opportunity.

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Michael Landon liked to flaunt his muscles in Little House on the Prairie

Karen Grassle herself is said to have had some issues with Michael Landon on the set of 'Little House on the Prairie'. In her memoir, she gives an insight into her time on the set of the series and even makes some allegations against her former co-star.

Michael Landon died in 1991 at the age of 54 from cancer.