Prairie Memories Katherine MacGregor a/k/a Harriet Oleson
		Mrs. Oleson was one of the most memorable characters in Walnut Grove. She was always up on all the latest gossip!           Harriet's portrayor, Katherine MacGregor, was kind enough to take the time  to be interviewed for Prairie Memories.  A BIG thanks goes out to Ms. MacGregor!
			How did you get started in acting? Were you inspired by anyone in particular? My mother enrolled me in our local children's drama class.  I was about 9 or 10 - 5th grade if I recall correctly.  So I've been an actress all my life - my major in college!  I began acting professionally when I moved to New York. Also began studying because a working actress then.  Marlon Brando, Kim Stanley were two great actors and tremendous inspirations. Also great teachers Sanford Meisner in New York and Stella Adleri - three six week courses in Hollywood.  Also Danny Nagrin - dance teacher, Mr. Waldeck and Tom LoManaco - singing teacher!! Did you audition for the part of "Mrs. Oleson" or did you originally audition for another role? Yes, Mrs. Oleson only!  That was the only role I was right for!  Teehee.  I did three Broadway shows, five off Broadway shows, several summer stock plays, many regional theater plays, a number of live TV shows, four soap operas - all in New York from 1948 through 1969. (Moved out to LA) October 1969.  A number of TV shows and TV movies from 1970 through 1974 when I was cast as the Little House "bitchy" wife of Nels Oleson (Richard Bull) from 1974 to February 1983 - THEN I RETIRED!!! Do you have a favorite episode(s) of Little House? Perhaps "Family Quarrel" and perhaps "Blind Journey" - also maybe "Harriet's Happenings". So many were so good  - i.e. Bunny, the new telephone in Nellie's Restaurant/Hotel - can't remember all titles!
				August 2005 Please do not reproduce without permission