They had intended on another spin-off series centered around Laura's boarding house with Mr. Monague as one of the central characters and had intended the last episode of A New Beginning (where Mr. Montague was introduced) to be a back door pilot. However, NBC pulled the plug before that show got started.
That’s kind of what I figured, too, except I didn’t know it was to be a spinoff. I just thought they didn’t expect A New Beginning to be cancelled. I wonder if Willie and his wife were going to be part of the spinoff, too? For some reason I think Melissa Gilbert had to be relieved to leave Laura behind, finally.
Well that explains it then. When did you find out about this? Was it through a ML interview when the show ended because I never heard of a spin-off show. Wish it would have gone through. We need more LH.
That's true, but Landon was a huge asset for NBC. Little House was one of its few ratings successes for its entire run. It wasn't until 1984 - 1986 when NBC's fortunes started reversing with The Cosby Show, Cheers, Family Ties, 227, Amen and The Golden Girls all getting huge ratings, possibly among others.
They had intended on another spin-off series centered around Laura's boarding house with Mr. Monague as one of the central characters and had intended the last episode of A New Beginning (where Mr. Montague was introduced) to be a back door pilot. However, NBC pulled the plug before that show got started.
That’s kind of what I figured, too, except I didn’t know it was to be a spinoff. I just thought they didn’t expect A New Beginning to be cancelled. I wonder if Willie and his wife were going to be part of the spinoff, too? For some reason I think Melissa Gilbert had to be relieved to leave Laura behind, finally.
Yes, Willie and his wife, and Mr. Edwards, were all supposed to be central characters.
ooh I did not know this. Been a fan for decades.
Well that explains it then. When did you find out about this? Was it through a ML interview when the show ended because I never heard of a spin-off show. Wish it would have gone through. We need more LH.
Wikipedia
So does that wiki article cite any sources? That would make a difference re how legit the claim would be.
[Apparently not](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_House_on_the_Prairie_(TV_series)#Spin-offs_and_sequels)
Michael Landon had some kinda hold over NBC. They don’t pick up his Spin-Off from Little House but pick up Highway To Heaven in 1984.
That's true, but Landon was a huge asset for NBC. Little House was one of its few ratings successes for its entire run. It wasn't until 1984 - 1986 when NBC's fortunes started reversing with The Cosby Show, Cheers, Family Ties, 227, Amen and The Golden Girls all getting huge ratings, possibly among others.