‘Little House’ Cast Revisit Grueling Shoots as Landon’s Finale Decision Draws Fresh Focus

Overview

• Alison Arngrim says 14-year-old guest Sean Penn collapsed during a Simi Valley shoot, citing extreme temperatures and ice-water towels that failed to help.
• Patrick Labyorteaux corroborates the conditions, recalling ammonia capsules, salt tablets, and repeated cast fainting.
• Dean Butler recounts Michael Landon physically tossing him during a barn rehearsal after he failed to go limp on cue, calling it his own fault.
• Karen Grassle tells People her relationship with Landon deteriorated after a denied raise, describing sexist remarks and exhaustion that kept her from fan events for years.
• Reports reiterate that Landon ordered the Walnut Grove set destroyed at the series end for cast catharsis and to prevent later reuse, while filming took place at Big Sky Movie Ranch, which remains an active location.