Fans of classic television series “Little House On The Prairie” are in mourning this week after the death of actress Katherine MacGregor, who played Harriet Oleson on the show. She was 93 years-old when she died on Tuesday at the Motion Picture Fund Long Term Nursing Care Facility in Woodland Hills, California.
MacGregor’s character of Harriet was something of a greedy villainess on the show that acted as a foil to the wholesome Ingalls family. However, MacGregor herself was loved by her fellow cast members and fans alike.
Melissa Gilbert, who played Laura Ingalls Wilder on the show, took to social media to pay tribute to MacGregor.
“I just got word that Katherine MacGregor passed away yesterday. This woman taught me so much… about acting… vintage jewelry…life,” Gilbert wrote. “She was outspoken and hilariously funny. A truly gifted actress as she was able to play a despicable character but with so much heart. Her Harriet Oleson was the woman our fans loved to hate. A perfect antagonist.”
“The thing people outside of our prairie family didn’t know, was how loving and nurturing she was with the younger cast,” Gilbert continued. “I really loved her and I find great comfort knowing that she is at peace and, per her beliefs, her soul has moved on to its next incarnation. Farewell Scottie. I hope with all my heart we meet again next time.”
Alison Arngrim, who played MacGregor’s onscreen daughter Nellie, also payed tribute to the late actress on social media.
“Long live our beautiful Harriet. Long live the immortal Katherine MacGregor!” she wrote.
Rest in peace, Katherine MacGregor!
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