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'Yellowstone' star Jennifer Landon’s father is an iconic TV star — but not many know about it

Jennifer Landon gained a massive following after her role as Teeter in 'Yellowstone' but we bet you didn't know she is the daughter of a TV legend

Jennifer Landon has become a fan favorite on 'Yellowstone' thanks to her unforgettable role as Teeter. With her bright pink hair, sharp tongue, and heavy Texas accent, Teeter is as tough as they come. But while Jennifer’s character is rough around the edges, the actress has a history rooted in Hollywood. Many fans don’t know that she’s the daughter of one of television’s most iconic stars, Michael Landon.

Michael Landon was a TV legend, best known for his role as Charles Ingalls on the beloved series 'Little House on the Prairie'. He also starred in and created 'Highway to Heaven', a heartwarming show from the 1980s. Growing up, Jennifer lived her childhood around the sets where he worked. Her mother, Cindy Landon, was a makeup artist on 'Little House on the Prairie', and her parents’ lives revolved around the industry. For Jennifer, Hollywood had become more like a home.

Jennifer’s childhood, however, wasn’t without its hardships. Her father died in 1991 from pancreatic cancer when she was only seven years old. The loss of her father at such a young age left a profound mark on her. “It is devastating beyond comprehension to lose a parent, especially at an early age,” Jennifer shared with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, as per The Daily Mail. “When dad was fighting the disease, Sean was too young to understand. I understood more, I knew if he was doing well or not well on any given day,” she explained how losing her father changed her perspective on life, “When he passed away, I suddenly saw things differently and questioned everything. Even today I question rules and structure. I can't say how much his death has affected me, but I know it's a significant part of the fabric of who I am.”

Despite the pain of her loss, Jennifer found a way to follow in her father’s footsteps. She built a career in acting, making a name for herself in her own right. Before landing her role on 'Yellowstone', she starred in the CBS soap opera 'As the World Turns', where her portrayal of Gwen Norbeck Munson earned her three Daytime Emmy Awards. It was clear from the start that she wasn’t just riding on her family name, and that she had real talent. 

With 'Yellowstone', Jennifer has found a new audience. Her character Teeter is wildly different from her real-life personality, but that’s part of what makes her performance so impressive. Teeter’s brash attitude and unique way of speaking often make her the comic relief on the ranch, especially in scenes with Rip Wheeler, (Cole Hauser). It’s hard to believe that the same actress who plays the loud-mouthed ranch hand grew up under one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.

Though Jennifer has carved her own path, her father’s legacy is never far from her heart. From his role as a pioneer on 'Little House on the Prairie' to her current success on 'Yellowstone', the Landon name continues to leave a mark on television history through her. Jennifer’s journey proves that while talent may run in the family, it’s hard work that truly makes a star.