Jack Lilley, a versatile character actor and longtime stuntman best known for his work on Little House on the Prairie, has died at the age of 91. The news was confirmed by actress Melissa Gilbert, who portrayed Laura Ingalls on the classic television series. In a statement shared on social media, Gilbert paid tribute to Lilley’s legacy both on and off the screen.
“The Little House family has lost one of our own,” Gilbert wrote. “He taught me how to ride a horse when I was just a wee little thing. He was so patient with me… He always felt like home to me.”
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Lilley appeared in multiple roles throughout the run of Little House on the Prairie and was widely respected for his skill as a wrangler and behind-the-scenes contributor. Gilbert also highlighted his work in the Mel Brooks film Blazing Saddles, calling his performance “absolute brilliance.”
The two reconnected more than two decades ago while working on an ABC television pilot titled Then Came Jones. Though the show was never picked up, the experience proved memorable for Gilbert. “Our first read-through was at Paramount Studios, where we had shot Little House the first four years,” she recalled. “It was also on Halloween—Michael Landon’s birthday. That day, I also found out we would be shooting at Big Sky Ranch, where we had shot Little House.”
Her first day on set offered an unexpected and emotional reunion. “As I walked to set, I heard a familiar voice holler, ‘Hey Halfpint, you old rat-a–!!’ It was Jack,” she shared. “He was our wrangler for that pilot and by his side was Denny Allen, who had been our wrangler on Little House. In that instant, I knew I was home.”
In her tribute, Gilbert extended condolences to Lilley’s family and reflected on the lasting impact of their friendship. “He lived quite a life. I am so lucky that he was my friend,” she said. Lilley’s contributions to television and film spanned decades, and his influence continues to resonate with those who worked alongside him.
