Jack Lilley, the cherished actor and stuntman who brought grit and grace to Little House on the Prairie, has passed away at the age of 91. Remembered for his quiet strength and kind heart, Lilley left an indelible mark on those he worked with.
His longtime co-star, Melissa Gilbert, paid heartfelt tribute to him, recalling how he patiently taught her to ride horses during her childhood on set. “He was always there with a smile, a story, and a joke,” she shared. “He made the prairie a safer, warmer place.”
Fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of a true gentleman of the screen—one whose work often went unseen but never unappreciated.
Jack Lilley was much more than just Victor French’s photo double—he brought versatility and charisma to Little House on the Prairie, playing multiple roles throughout the series. His talents extended beyond television, with appearances in iconic films like Blazing Saddles.
In 2002, Melissa Gilbert had a heartfelt reunion with Lilley on the set of the ABC pilot Then Came Jones. She called the moment “surreal and nostalgic,” especially when she heard his unmistakable voice greet her with his beloved nickname:
“Hey Halfpint, you old rat-ass!”
To Gilbert, Jack was more than a colleague—he felt like home.
Born in 1933, Lilley’s career flourished during the golden age of westerns. His rugged charm and fearless stunt work made him a familiar face on classics like Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and The Virginian. Seamlessly shifting between acting and stunt coordination, he earned the respect and admiration of everyone who worked alongside him.
Off-screen, Jack’s passion for horses and the western lifestyle ran deep. He was an avid participant in rodeos and beloved in his community for his generous spirit.
Jack Lilley’s legacy endures—not just through his memorable roles and daring stunts, but in the warmth and kindness he shared with all who crossed his path.
