10 Shows Like Little House on the Prairie (1974)

Description: 'The Waltons' shares with 'Little House on the Prairie' a focus on family life during tough times, set in a rural environment. Both series highlight the importance of family unity, hard work, and moral integrity, often resolving conflicts with heartfelt lessons.

Fact: The show is based on Earl Hamner Jr.'s semi-autobiographical book 'Spencer's Mountain'. The famous 'Goodnight, John-Boy' line became a cultural catchphrase. The series won multiple Emmy Awards during its run.

Description: This series, set in a small town, shares with 'Little House on the Prairie' themes of family, community, and personal growth. Both shows feature strong child protagonists and explore moral and ethical dilemmas in a rural setting.

Fact: The show was produced by Kevin Sullivan, who also worked on 'Anne of Green Gables'. It was one of the most expensive Canadian TV series at the time. The series won multiple Gemini Awards.

Description: Similar to 'Little House on the Prairie', 'Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman' is set in a small, rural community during the 19th century, focusing on family values, community support, and overcoming adversity. Both shows emphasize strong moral lessons and the importance of family and community bonds.

Fact: The show was inspired by the real-life experiences of women doctors in the Old West. Jane Seymour, who played Dr. Quinn, performed many of her own stunts. The series was known for its historical accuracy in depicting medical practices of the time.

Description: Like 'Little House on the Prairie', 'Touched by an Angel' delivers heartfelt stories with strong moral messages. Both shows focus on the power of faith, love, and redemption, often featuring emotional and uplifting narratives.

Fact: The show was initially canceled after its first season but was revived due to fan demand. Della Reese, who played an angel, was a ordained minister in real life. The series often featured guest stars from various genres, including country music stars.

Description: This series, like 'Little House on the Prairie', is set in a small, close-knit community and revolves around strong female leads who face challenges with resilience and faith. Both shows emphasize community support, romance, and moral dilemmas.

Fact: The show is based on Janette Oke's 'Canadian West' book series. It has a dedicated fanbase known as 'Hearties'. The series was initially developed for the Hallmark Channel and has spawned several TV movies.

Description: Like 'Little House on the Prairie', 'Father Knows Best' focuses on family dynamics and moral lessons. Both shows present an idealized version of family life, with parents guiding their children through life's challenges with wisdom and love.

Fact: The show started as a radio program before transitioning to TV. Robert Young, who played the father, later starred in 'Marcus Welby, M.D.'. The series was one of the first to depict a middle-class American family realistically.

Description: 'Gunsmoke' and 'Little House on the Prairie' both depict life in the American frontier, though 'Gunsmoke' is more action-oriented. Both shows, however, explore themes of justice, community, and moral dilemmas in a rural setting.

Fact: 'Gunsmoke' is one of the longest-running primetime TV series in US history. James Arness, who played Marshal Matt Dillon, was originally considered for the role of Frankenstein's monster. The show was based on a popular radio drama.

Description: While 'Bonanza' is more of a western, it shares with 'Little House on the Prairie' a focus on family values and life in a rural setting. Both shows emphasize the importance of land, family bonds, and moral integrity.

Fact: 'Bonanza' was one of the first TV series to be filmed in color. The Cartwright family's ranch, the Ponderosa, became iconic. The show ran for 14 seasons, making it one of the longest-running westerns.

Description: Similar to 'Little House on the Prairie', 'Highway to Heaven' focuses on moral and ethical lessons, often resolving conflicts with compassion and understanding. Both shows emphasize the power of kindness and faith in overcoming life's challenges.

Fact: Michael Landon, who starred in 'Little House on the Prairie', created and starred in this series. The show was inspired by Landon's belief in angels. Each episode typically ended with a moral lesson.

Description: Similar to 'Little House on the Prairie', 'Anne of Green Gables' focuses on a young girl growing up in a rural setting, dealing with life's challenges with optimism and determination. Both stories highlight the importance of family, education, and personal growth.

Fact: The miniseries is based on Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic novel. Megan Follows, who played Anne, became synonymous with the character. The series was filmed in Canada and became a cultural phenomenon.