F
ans worldwide remember Alison Arngrim as the acidtongued hellcat on “The Show That Cannot be Named During the Strike.” The Show, set in the grasslands of America’s Midwest, was adapted from the book of the same name written by Laura Ingalls Wilder. But even before that fame-making role as America’s favorite love-to-hate-her antagonist, Alison Arngrim was making waves and making a name for herself. Born in 1962 to Hollywood manager Thor Arngrim and actress Norma MacMillan (the voice of many beloved animated characters including Casper and Gumby), Arngrim’s life was infused with Hollywood and acting from an early age.
Alison Arngrim An Exclusive Interview by Kelly Oden
Angrim got her first role starring in a ketchup commercial at the age of 5 and landed her most famous role by the age of 12. In addition to starring in The Show, Arngrim appeared on numerous TV series and game shows in the 70s and 80s. She also recorded a comedy album, developed a stand-up act and performed in the theater. Later, she became an advocate for those who could not advocate for themselves by lobbying with the child protection group, the National Association to Protect Children (PROTECT). A talented stand-up, Arngrim developed her life stories into a onewoman show that has been playing to sold out audiences on and off since 2002. Titled, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch, the act, and the subsequent memoir, chronicle Arngrim’s highs and lows with both lighthearted humor and candid discussions of personal tragedy. A true child of Hollywood, Arngrim continues to write, perform and take life with a grain of salt. Coming of Age had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Arngrim about her life, her career and her refusal to grow up.