Alison Arngrim Says “Little House’”s Nellie Was ‘Usually Faking Crying,’ but She ‘Freaked Everyone Out’ the One Time Real Tears Fell 

Alison Arngrim, known for her portrayal of the scheming Nellie Oleson in the beloved television series “Little House on the Prairie,” recently shared her reflections on the emotional challenges of acting in the show. The series, which aired from 1974 to 1983, remains a cherished part of American television history, and Arngrim’s character was a central antagonist to Melissa Gilbert’s Laura Ingalls Wilder.

In a recent appearance on the podcast “That’s Classic!”, the 64-year-old actress revisited her experience while filming, particularly focusing on the instances when genuine tears emerged on set. Arngrim recounted the emotional impact of filming the sixth season episode titled “He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not,” which featured a pivotal moment for her character when Percival Dalton, portrayed by Steve Tracy, decided to leave Walnut Grove.

Reflecting on her ability to feign tears for the camera, Arngrim joked that although she had a knack for “fake-crying,” there were specific moments that drew forth authentic emotion. She noted that during the production, certain directors, including the show’s iconic creator Michael Landon, could provoke tears on demand, while others employed more methodical techniques to connect with their characters’ emotions.

Arngrim explained that the crew sometimes faced time constraints during filming, which could lead to an urgent need for emotional reactions. She revealed that glycerin was frequently used to simulate tears, as well as menthol crystals, colloquially known as “cry sticks.” While these methods were effective, she admitted that they often lacked the authenticity of real tears, which would flow naturally when the story was particularly moving.

The moment when Percival chooses to leave is seared in Arngrim’s memory for its emotional intensity. She recalled how that specific scene elicited a genuine reaction from her, saying, “I really cried. And it kind of freaked everyone out because I spent seven years fake-crying for candy, for a horse, for dolls.” The contrast between her usual performances and the sincerity of that moment caught both the cast and crew by surprise.

After the scene, concern arose among her colleagues, who rushed to check in on her emotional state. “You guys all cry! What? I finally cry, you freak out?” she recounted, highlighting the amusing yet surreal experience of her castmates being unprepared for her sudden vulnerability.

In the narrative of “Little House on the Prairie,” Nellie Oleson eventually marries Percival, and the couple has two children together. Their departure from the town at the end of season seven to relocate to New York for Percival’s business is a significant turning point in the series, showcasing the evolution of Nellie’s character from a spoiled child to a devoted mother.

“Little House on the Prairie,” with its heartwarming stories and relatable themes, has left an indelible mark on viewers and continues to inspire new generations. The show is being rebooted by Netflix, with the first season set for release on July 9, providing an opportunity for old fans to revisit the story while introducing it to new audiences.

As Arngrim reminisced about her time on set, it became evident that her journey as Nellie Oleson was one of both challenge and growth. Her ability to navigate complex emotions, even in a character that often wielded hostility, demonstrates the depth of her artistry.

Through her reflections, Arngrim not only entertains fans of the classic series but also invites them to delve deeper into the art of acting and the emotional resonance that can be found within storytelling. With both the nostalgia of the original show and the anticipation of its revival, audiences are reminded of the enduring legacy of “Little House on the Prairie” and its characters, crafted with care and an unmistakable human touch.