‘Little House on the Prairie’ reviews are in — Here’s what critics are saying about Netflix’s reboot
The new series, based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved books has already secured a second-season renewal
Netflix’s reboot of Little House on the Prairie has received largely positive reviews from critics following its premiere, with early reactions praising its family-focused storytelling while offering mixed views on its modern approach to the classic source material.
The new series, based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved books, debuted on Netflix on July 9 and has already secured a second-season renewal.
The cast includes Luke Bracey, Crosby Fitzgerald, Alice Halsey, Skywalker Hughes, Warren Christie, Jocko Sims, Meegwun Fairbrother, Alyssa Wapanatâhk and Wren Zahewenim Gotts.
The adaptation currently holds an 85% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting generally favourable reviews from critics.
TV Guide awarded the series 7.5 out of 10, writing, “For the most part its wholesomeness is endearing.”
RogerEbert.com described the series as “a pleasant enough eight-episode drama that more than looks the part, without ever really challenging its audience or complicating its own depiction of life on the American frontier all that much.”
The Guardian gave the reboot three out of five stars, stating, “There are peppermint sticks in the general store, handmade quilts on the snug cabin’s beds and at least three songs and dances round the campfire per episode. You may take that as a promise or a warning as you wish.”
Other reviews were similarly balanced. Decider called it “an addictive family drama”, while Variety said the series “illustrates the beauty of community, the horrors of encroachment and displacement, and the cost of being an American.”
The Hollywood Reporter described Rebecca Sonnenshine’s adaptation as “an honorable interpretation” that remains respectful to Wilder’s books. IndieWire awarded it a B+, while TheWrap praised its efforts to centre women and minorities more prominently than the original series.
Not all reviews were entirely favourable. Time argued the reboot “suffers from the same cloying excesses as its predecessor”, while The Daily Beast said its “intentions are noble, but its execution is messy”.
Despite the varied opinions, the series has made a strong early impression with critics and audiences, and Netflix has already confirmed that Little House on the Prairie will return for a second season.
