The Little House on the Prairie family is grieving after a deeply emotional loss. Victor French Jr., the son of beloved actor Victor French, who starred as Mr. Edwards, has passed away.
The tragic news was shared on an April 6 episode by the Little House on the Prairie 50th Anniversary Podcast, hosted by two of the series’ cast members, Alison Arngrim and Dean Butler, as well as actress Pamela Bob.
Victor French Jr’s father famously played Mr. Edwards in the iconic series. He sadly died in 1989 at the age of 54 after battling lung cancer. In a touching statement, the podcast honored Victor Jr.’s life and his impact on the community.
“We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Victor French Jr. A beloved member of the Little House community, Victor worked tirelessly to keep his father’s legacy alive through his kindness and dedication to the fans. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family. Thank you, Victor, for the joy you brought to us all,” the statement read.
‘Little House on the Prairie’ community mourns passing of Victor French Jr.
For many, Victor Jr, born in 1960, was more than just the son of a famous actor; he was also a positive and kind man who, in this case, brought the cast members together.
Alison Arngrim, who played Nellie Oleson on the show, shared an emotional tribute:
“Aw… man. Our dear Victor Jr. has left us,” she wrote on Facebook. “He was a purveyor of joy. A recruiter for happiness. He lit up the room.i We will miss him very much.”
Actor Dean Butler, known for playing Almanzo Wilder, also spoke out after hearing the news. In a heartfelt message on Instagram, he explained how Victor Jr. and his sister had long been part of several Little House events. Per Butler, they helped keep the show’s legacy alive.
He reminded fans that they were the children of Victor French, the man who will always be remembered as Isaiah Edwards. Moreover, Butler revealed that French Jr. had been battling cancer.
“Victor will be remembered for his gentle sweetness, his goofy sense of humor. Just a lovely presence,” Butler continued, adding that he and Victor’s actor father were “cut from the same cloth.”
Praised by Dean Butler
Buttler continued, “Victor was a wonderful representative of his father’s talent. He would frequently entertain people at events by stepping into a quick verse or two of ‘Old Dan Tucker.’ Victor was just a very sweet, good man. He will be missed as a member of the Little House family.”
As the news spread, fans quickly filled social media with love, memories, and grief. Many remembered Victor Jr. as a kind and gentle man who made everyone feel special. Some recalled meeting him at fan events, describing his warm hugs, his big smile, and the joy he brought into every room.
One fan wrote that he was “a dear, dear man,” while another said, “He looked just like his dad… rest in peace.”
Rest in peace, Victor French Jr. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
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