Do you remember Mary Ingalls from the beloved TV show “Little House on the Prairie”? She was the kind and gentle older sister, and the actress who played her, Melissa Sue Anderson, became a very familiar face to people all over the world. But what happened to her after the show ended? What else has she been in? And just how much is Melissa Sue Anderson worth today?
In this article, we’ll take a look at Melissa Sue Anderson’s life, her career, and how she built her fortune. We’ll also learn some interesting facts about her along the way!
Melissa Sue Anderson’s Acting Career and Net Worth
Melissa Sue Anderson started her acting career very young. She appeared in commercials and TV shows before landing her breakout role as Mary Ingalls in “Little House on the Prairie” at just 11 years old. This role made her a star and earned her an Emmy Award nomination.
Early Life and “Little House on the Prairie”
Born in 1962, Anderson began acting in commercials as a child. Her big break came with “Little House on the Prairie,” where she played Mary Ingalls from 1974 to 1981. This role made her a household name and a beloved figure for many.
Life After “Little House”
After “Little House on the Prairie,” Anderson continued acting in various movies and TV shows, including “Happy Birthday to Me,” “Midnight Offerings,” and “Which Mother Is Mine?” She also did voice acting for animated series like “Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends.”
Melissa Sue Anderson’s Movies and TV Shows
Anderson has appeared in a wide range of movies and TV shows throughout her career. Here’s a table showcasing some of her notable works:
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1974-1981 | Little House on the Prairie | Mary Ingalls | Main role |
| 1976 | The Loneliest Runner | Nancy Rizzi | TV movie |
| 1979 | Survival of Dana | Dana Lee Gilbert | TV movie |
| 1981 | Midnight Offerings | Vivian Sotherland | TV movie |
| 1981 | Happy Birthday to Me | Virginia Wainwright | |
| 1989 | The Return of Sam McCloud | Colleen McCloud | TV movie |
| 2006 | 10.5: Apocalypse | First Lady Megan Hollister | Miniseries |
Awards and Recognition
Anderson’s talent has been recognized with several awards and nominations, including:
- Emmy Award Nomination: Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for “Little House on the Prairie”
- TP de Oro Award: Best Foreign Actress for “Little House on the Prairie” (Spain)
What is Melissa Sue Anderson’s Net Worth Today?
While exact figures are not always public, various sources estimate Melissa Sue Anderson’s net worth to be around $1.5 million. This wealth comes from her long and successful acting career, which spans decades.
Factors Contributing to Her Net Worth
Several factors contribute to Anderson’s net worth:
- Acting Roles: Her roles in popular TV shows and movies have generated income throughout her career.
- Residuals: Actors often receive payments called “residuals” when their shows or movies are re-run, which can add to their earnings over time.
- Voice Acting: Anderson has lent her voice to animated series, which also contributes to her income.
- Book: She wrote an autobiography, “The Way I See It: A Look Back at My Life on Little House,” which likely generated royalties.
Melissa Sue Anderson: Personal Life and Recent Years
Anderson has been married to television writer and producer Michael Sloan since 1990. They have two children and live in Montreal, Canada. In 2007, she became a Canadian citizen while retaining her U.S. citizenship.
Where is Melissa Sue Anderson Now?
Although she has taken a step back from the spotlight in recent years, Anderson remains a beloved figure, particularly for fans of “Little House on the Prairie.” Her portrayal of Mary Ingalls continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
Conclusion
Melissa Sue Anderson, the actress who brought Mary Ingalls to life, has enjoyed a successful career spanning decades. From her early days on “Little House on the Prairie” to her various roles in movies and television, she has captivated audiences with her talent.
While her net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million, her legacy goes beyond financial success. She remains a cherished figure in television history, and her story inspires aspiring actors and fans alike.
FAQs
What is Melissa Sue Anderson most famous for?
Melissa Sue Anderson is best known for her role as Mary Ingalls in the NBC drama series “Little House on the Prairie.”
Is Melissa Sue Anderson still acting?
While Anderson has not appeared in any major roles recently, she remains active in the entertainment industry and occasionally attends fan events.
Did Melissa Sue Anderson win any awards for her role in “Little House on the Prairie”?
Although she didn’t win an Emmy, Anderson was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her performance as Mary Ingalls. She also won the TP de Oro Award for Best Foreign Actress in Spain.
Has Melissa Sue Anderson written any books?
Yes, Anderson wrote an autobiography titled “The Way I See It: A Look Back at My Life on Little House,” where she shares her experiences and insights from her time on the show.
Where does Melissa Sue Anderson live now?
Melissa Sue Anderson currently resides in Montreal, Canada with her husband and children. She became a Canadian citizen in 2007.