“Little House on the Prairie” Star Charlotte Stewart Shares the Unexpected Rocker She Became ‘Drinking Buddies’ with in the ‘60s

**Charlotte Stewart Reflects on Unlikely Friendship with Jim Morrison in the 1960s**

Charlotte Stewart, known for her portrayal of Eva Beadle-Simms on the beloved series *Little House on the Prairie*, has recently reminisced about her unexpected friendship with rock legend Jim Morrison during the 1960s. Long before she became a television star, Stewart ran a boutique in Los Angeles that brought her into contact with some of the most influential figures in the music industry.

Stewart operated a shop called Liquid Butterfly, which was conveniently located across from Elektra Records, a label that had carved out a reputation for its adventurous approach to music. It was this proximity that led to her first encounter with Morrison, the charismatic frontman of The Doors.

In a conversation with her former *Little House* co-star Patrick Labyorteaux, Stewart recounted the beginnings of their relationship, which started with a surprise visit from Morrison. “One day, I got to work, and there was Jim Morrison standing in my store, looking out the window,” she recalled. She remembered him asking, “Do you mind if I’m here?” to which she replied, “No, I don’t mind if you’re here.” Morrison had come to gaze at Elektra Records, a place central to his career.

The significance of this location was not lost on either of them. Elektra was founded in 1950 and had become synonymous with the rock movement by the 1960s after signing The Doors in 1966. Stewart’s own connection to the music scene stemmed from her boyfriend, who managed prominent artists like Joni Mitchell and Neil Young. This close-knit environment was instrumental in her shop attracting figures like Morrison.

Reflecting on the atmosphere of Liquid Butterfly, Stewart explained that the boutique was more than just a shop; it served as a haven amidst the bustling music industry. The casual vibe meant that Morrison felt comfortable visiting often, and their interactions quickly evolved from brief meetings to regular social outings.

As their friendship developed, Morrison became a frequent lunch companion for Stewart and a group of friends. “We became drinking buddies,” she noted, adding that their gatherings often included several others. “At noon, five or six of us would walk down La Cienega Boulevard to grab lunch and share some drinks.” In this informal setting, Stewart found herself taking on the role of caretaker when Morrison’s drinking escalated.

Stewart recounted, “He would come into the store around five or six o’clock and ask, ‘You want to go?’ I would say, ‘Okay.’ We’d go out, but he would get so drunk that I’d have to drive him home.” Despite the challenges of helping a friend grappling with substance abuse, she clarified her intentions, stating, “I didn’t want anything from him. He was my drinking buddy, and I took care of him.”

Morrison’s struggles with alcohol and drugs were well-documented and culminated in his tragic death at the young age of 27 in July 1971. He was found lifeless in the bathtub of his apartment in Paris, a loss that sent shockwaves throughout the music world and beyond.

Stewart’s candid remembrance of her friendship with Morrison highlights a side of the singer that many may not have known – a side marked by companionship and a true connection. While Morrison was often portrayed as a wild, enigmatic figure, Stewart’s experiences illustrate the more personal and vulnerable aspects of his life.

For those grappling with substance abuse issues, Stewart’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of friendship and support. Resources like the SAMHSA helpline are available for those in need, providing assistance to individuals seeking help for themselves or their loved ones.

As Stewart reflects on this chapter of her life, her memories of Jim Morrison stand out not as a mere encounter with a rock star, but as a poignant reminder of the deep bonds that can form in unexpected places.