Fans of “Little House on the Prairie” fondly remember Melissa Sue Anderson as Mary Ingalls, but what happened to her after the show ended? Anderson, now 61, made a life-changing decision to move to Canada and step away from Hollywood.

She prioritized her family over fame, explaining, “I really stepped away for a long time.” Her choice to leave showbiz allowed her to focus on raising her two children, Griffin and Piper, in Montreal.

Anderson’s portrayal of Mary left a lasting impact, earning her acclaim and nominations. Reflecting on her role, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “I’m fortunate that there was even a character for me to play.”

Despite retiring from the spotlight, she hasn’t abandoned acting entirely, taking on occasional roles. Inspired by her experiences, she penned a memoir, “The Way I See It: A Look Back at My Life on Little House.”

As Anderson celebrates her 61st birthday, fans can appreciate her journey beyond Plum Creek, acknowledging her commitment to family and personal fulfillment.