This Boy Was Only 16 When He Lost Star Dad – 8 Years Later, He Came Out as Gay and Now Raises 2 Sons

  • Michael Landon, star of “Little House on the Prairie” and “Bonanza,” succumbed to his illness within three months at the age of 54.
  • The final promise made by his gay son after a “painful” childhood has come to light.
  • Now 48 years old, the said son is a devoted father to two children who closely resemble him.

The renowned American actor Michael Landon sadly passed away at the young age of 54, many years ago. He was celebrated for his television roles in “Bonanza,” “Little House on the Prairie,” and “Highway to Heaven.”

Despite a bustling Hollywood career, Michael always prioritized his family. The actor had nine children and was fortunate enough to witness the birth of some of his grandchildren before his untimely death.

A headshot of Michael Landon, circa 1970 | Source: Getty Images

A headshot of Michael Landon, circa 1970 | Source: Getty Images

Michael was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and valiantly fought it, devoting all his energy to recovery. Unfortunately, he could not overcome the disease and passed away a mere three months after receiving his initial diagnosis.

The actor underwent chemotherapy, embraced more natural remedies, and adopted a primarily vegetarian diet. Regrettably, by Father’s Day in 1990, the harbingers of his impending demise had become evident.

Christopher Landon, Sean Landon, Jennifer Landon, Cindy Clerico, Michael Landon, Michael Landon Jr., Mark Landon, Leslie Landon, and Shawna Landon at the Moonlight Roundup Benefiting Free Arts for Abused Children in 1989 | Source: Getty Images

Christopher Landon, Sean Landon, Jennifer Landon, Cindy Clerico, Michael Landon, Michael Landon Jr., Mark Landon, Leslie Landon, and Shawna Landon at the Moonlight Roundup Benefiting Free Arts for Abused Children in 1989 | Source: Getty Images

On June 16, 1990, Michael confided in his wife, Cindy, acknowledging he was dying. She had witnessed it herself when they sat together in their living room that day, as he struggled to get out of his chair and ascend the stairs with his portable oxygen tank.

As June came to a close, a nurse cautioned Michael’s family that his death was imminent, and they should brace themselves for the unavoidable. Cindy made sure all of Michael’s children arrived to bid their farewells.

Michael Landon, Cindy Landon, Sean Landon, Jennifer Landon, and Christopher Landon at the National Down Syndrome Congress' Second Annual Michael Landon Celebrity Gala n Culver City, California in 1988 | Source: Getty Images

Michael Landon, Cindy Landon, Sean Landon, Jennifer Landon, and Christopher Landon...