Melissa Gilbert Speaks Out Against Megyn Kelly’s Criticism of Little House Reboot
Melissa Gilbert, renowned actress known for her role in “Little House on the Prairie”, recently shared her perspective on the criticisms made by Megyn Kelly regarding the reboot of the classic show. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Gilbert expressed her concerns about the negative impact of such criticisms. She emphasised that everyone has the right to tell stories in their own way, and there is room for multiple interpretations within the “Little House” universe.
Gilbert initially had no intention of commenting on the reboot, which was announced by Netflix. However, she felt compelled to speak out when Megyn Kelly’s comments surfaced. Gilbert explained, “I think everyone has a right to tell any story they want to in any way they want to. What I have a problem with, and the reason I opened my big fat mouth, was because someone else opened hers.” This demonstrates Gilbert’s commitment to addressing issues she finds important, even if it means engaging in public discourse.
The actress reflected on the significance of the original series, noting that it tackled various social issues of the time. She pointed out that the essence of the show was to shed light on the realities of the era it portrayed and draw connections to contemporary issues. Gilbert stressed the importance of acknowledging diverse perspectives in storytelling and rejected any notion that exploring different narratives is a negative endeavour.
While acknowledging the potential for differing opinions, Gilbert emphasised the detrimental effects of dismissing the social awareness embedded in the original series. She highlighted the relevance of the show’s themes, particularly in addressing issues such as racism and nativism. Gilbert praised the impact of “Little House on the Prairie” in raising awareness and fostering discussions around crucial societal matters.
Regarding the upcoming remake of the series, Gilbert clarified that it should not replicate the original but instead draw inspiration from the original literary works. She expressed hope that the new adaptation would explore untold stories from the books, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved narrative. Gilbert encouraged staying true to the source material and avoiding unnecessary deviations in character development and plotlines.
As for her own involvement in the “Little House” universe, Gilbert hinted at a potential distancing from returning to the franchise. She suggested that the new series should forge its path and avoid intertwining too closely with the original storylines. Despite this, Gilbert remains actively engaged in various projects, including her role in “When Calls the Heart” and her contributions to Modern Prairie, an online community she co-founded.
In conclusion, Melissa Gilbert’s insights shed light on the complexities of storytelling and the enduring relevance of “Little House on the Prairie”. Her response to Megyn Kelly’s criticism underscores the importance of preserving the essence of the original series while embracing new interpretations. Gilbert’s dedication to meaningful storytelling serves as a reminder of the impact media can have in shaping societal perspectives and fostering inclusivity.
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