We couldn’t be more thrilled for this long-awaited family reunion! Join us in welcoming fan-favorite Charles Bloom, known to Little House on the Prairie fans as Perley Dey Wilder.
Charles Bloom has built an impressive career spanning acting and musical composition. As a composer and lyricist, he has made significant contributions to musical theater, writing the book, music, and lyrics for productions such as Pablo—a deep dive into the early life of Picasso—Insomnia, and Heaven Knows. His compositions have been performed by Broadway legends like Patti LuPone, Mandy Patinkin, and Michael Feinstein and are studied in over 30 university musical theater programs worldwide. His album, Music and Lyrics by Charles Bloom: IN HERE, features a live 20-piece orchestra and showcases top Broadway talent.
In this episode, Charles shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, including his original audition for Little House on the Prairie, where he was initially considered for the role of Almanzo! He reflects on his time filming the episode and is still amazed by the enduring love from Bonnetheads worldwide. Though Perley Dey appeared in just one episode, it was a memorable one—his performance left a lasting impression on generations of fans.
This episode has it all: romance, drama, love triangles, and Laura Ingalls in peak awkward-era mode (the iconic "I'm a woman" declaration happens multiple times—braids and all—cringe!). Expect intense tension between the alpha males, high comedy, and Andy Garvey delivering some serious feels… for better or worse.
And for an exclusive treat—join us on Patreon! Dean opens up about a haunting on-set memory involving Michael Landon and Charles that has stuck with him for nearly 45 years. Plus, Charles spills the details on a date he once set up for Melissa Gilbert…and trust us, you’ll never guess who it was with!
To check out Charles Bloom's music, his link and facebook page are in the show notes.
Don’t forget to subscribe, comment, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow Bonnetheads.
Links and Resources:
Haven’t signed up for Patreon yet? Link is below!
PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/LittleHousePodcast
***We send our love and support to L.A. and all of those affected by the Wild Fires. Especially our friend, Matthew Labyorteaux, (Albert Ingalls) and his family who have been devastated by the fires.
If you would like to contribute to his GoFund Me, please visit:https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-leslie-matt-rebuild-after-devastating-fire-loss
www.LittleHouse50Podcast.com to connect with our hosts and link to their websites.The merch shop is under renovation - we will keep you posted on the status!
www.LivinOnaPrairieTV.com Check out the award-winning series created by Pamela Bob, with special guest stars Alison Arngrim and Charlotte Stewart.
Little House 50th Anniversary Bus Tours - www.SimiValleyChamber.org select Little House 50th Anniversary and then Bus Tickets
Facebook/Instagram/TikTok:
Dean Butler @officialdeanbutler
Alison Arngrim @alisonarngrim
Pamela Bob @thepamelabob, @prairietv
Charles Bloom: https://www.charlesbloomusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/bloomusic
Social Media Team: Joy Correa and Christine Nunez
https://www.paclanticcreative.com/