Victor French played the beloved Isaiah Edwards sporadically throughout Little House’s syndicated run, plus three follow-up TV movies
© Getty ImagesThe Little House on the Prairie universe is back on screens with the arrival of Netflix’s new reboot.
The streamer’s revival of the beloved Laura Ingalls Wilder book series premiered on July 9 to positive reviews, becoming the second major adaptation of the books after the popular NBC syndicated version.
The 1974-1983 version made stars of its cast, including Melissa Gilbert as the precocious Laura Ingalls and Michael Landon as “Pa” Charles Ingalls, plus memorable supporting players like Dean Butler as Laura’s future husband Almanzo Wilder and Victor French as the gruff but kind Mr. Isaiah Edwards.
Victor’s turn as the character proved to be a fan favorite, especially his renditions of “Old Dan Tucker,” a legacy carried on by his son. Sadly, he wasn’t able to reap the success of the show for decades to come like his other co-stars.
© Getty ImagesVictor French’s life and career
Born Victor Edwin French in 1934, his career on screen began with bit parts on TV and in film throughout the 1950s and ’60s, appearing in shows like The Donna Reed Show, Hogan’s Heroes and Lassie.
He earned his first recurring gig for seven episodes of Get Smart and another 10 episodes of The Hero. He played various roles for nearly a decade on the show Gunsmoke, with another recurring role in the show Daniel Boone. His work typically included Westerns and he also extensively worked as a stuntman.
© Getty ImagesVictor French on Little House on the Prairie
In 1974, Victor was cast as Isaiah Edwards on Little House, working opposite Michael Landon and even directing a few episodes. He was intermittently on the show from seasons one to eight, and was promoted to the regular cast for its final season.
He left for two years in between to star in the ABC sitcom Carter Country, but returned shortly after and appeared in three post-show TV movies.
© Getty ImagesVictor French after Little House and his tragic death
In 1984, he reunited with Michael to star in the fantasy drama Highway to Heaven, appearing for 111 episodes throughout the show’s entire run. Highway to Heaven ended up being his longest lasting project based on his appearances.
In 1989, he was diagnosed with lung cancer, which quickly progressed. Three months later, he tragically passed away at the age of just 54, with the series finale of Highway to Heaven airing two months after.
© InstagramVictor French’s family and their recent loss
From 1959 to 1975, Victor was married to Judith Schenz, following which he was married to actress Julie Cobb from 1976 to 1978. He welcomed three children before his death, two daughters and a son, also named Victor French (going by Victor French Jr.).
Victor Jr. carried on his father’s legacy, appearing at several fan conventions over the years and performing “Old Dan Tucker” in his honor. However, in April 2026, it was revealed that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. He passed away on April 6, 2026 at the age of 63.
The official Little House social media channel paid tribute to him, writing in part: “Through his appearances at recent conventions, his kindness to cast members, and the warmth he showed to fans, he became a familiar and much-loved part of this community. He will be deeply missed by so many who were grateful to know him and spend time with him.”
© ERIC ZACHANOWICH/NETFLIXMr. Edwards on the Netflix Little House reboot
In the Netflix revival, British actor Warren Christie plays John Edwards, a take on the “Mr. Edwards” character from the books. Warren is best known for his many TV appearances, most notably for shows like The L Word, October Road, True Justice, Alphas, Chicago Fire, The Village and The Watchful Eye, also starring in a slew of Hallmark movies.
