Melissa Gilbert Shares Why She Fled Hollywood: ‘I Had To Escape’

Little House on the Prairie star Melissa Gilbert, the beloved star of, enjoyed a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. However, despite her accomplishments in Hollywood, she eventually grew tired of the relentless glitz and glamour. In 2013, she made the life-altering decision to leave Los Angeles behind and relocate to a quieter and more peaceful life in the suburbs of New York.

In a recent interview, Gilbert opened up about her reasons for stepping away from the Hollywood spotlight. She noted that her decision to move was not just a retreat from the physical location of Hollywood, but also a conscious shift toward a lifestyle focused on authenticity and self-acceptance.

Melissa Gilbert shares the reason she left Hollywood

In a discussion with PEOPLE ahead of Little House on the Prairie’s golden jubilee, she opened up about the toxic environment in Hollywood, emphasizing the relentless pressure to maintain a certain image, especially as one ages. She revealed that the industry’s obsession with unattainable beauty standards was not only exhausting but also harmful, particularly for women who are constantly judged based on their appearance.

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Gilbert spoke candidly about how these unrealistic expectations weighed heavily on her, leading to feelings of frustration and disillusionment. The constant need to fit a narrow definition of beauty became overwhelming, prompting her to seek a more authentic, grounded lifestyle. By 2013, she made the significant decision to leave Hollywood behind and pursue a simpler, more fulfilling life, far from the superficial pressures of the entertainment industry.

Melissa Gilbert’s decision to leave Hollywood was a blessing for her

After deciding to embrace a simpler life, Gilbert and her husband, Timothy Busfield, initially relocated to Michigan before finally settling in a quiet, rural area in upstate New York. Reflecting on the move, the 60-year-old shared that the change of environment brought her a newfound sense of clarity and peace. She learned to embrace her natural self, accepting her body and the aging process with grace.

The transition not only helped her reconnect with herself, but also reignited her passion for nature and wellness. Inspired by her experiences, Gilbert launched her lifestyle brand, Modern Prairie, through which she encourages others to embrace their natural selves. The brand focuses on helping people, especially women, find acceptance and joy in simplicity, self-love, and community, all while promoting a deeper connection with nature.