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.
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.
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
Each of Michael’s kids possesses a distinct personality and has pursued their own unique path in life. One of his sons was just sixteen when Michael passed away, and a year later, he shared his experience of losing his father at such a young age.
Christopher reminisced about the day he learned his father was dying and his emotional state before receiving the heartbreaking news. He mentioned being in high spirits after acing an English exam on the Friday before his school’s vacation.
His sisters informed him that day about their father’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Reflecting on the moment he received the news, Christopher observed:
“I could feel every nerve in my body like it was all made up.”
Seven months after his father’s death, Christopher finally felt prepared to discuss his father’s passing and the grief it brought upon his family. His mother, stepmother, and siblings shared the same sentiment.
The young man lamented not expressing his apologies to his father for the battle he endured with the disease. When Michael passed away in the early hours of a July morning, only Cindy was by his side. His final words were, “I love you.” Reflecting on how his perception of death had transformed since his father’s passing, Christopher noted:
“Before, when I used to think about death, I’d say, ‘I don’t want to die at all!’ But now I’d say the worst that’s going to happen is that I’ll see Dad again.”
Cindy also shared her experience of witnessing Michael’s demise. She acknowledged that while it was challenging for her, the gradual loss of Michael over three months allowed her to accept the finality of his death.
Following his father’s passing, Christopher understood the importance of truly living his life, rather than merely existing. It was then that he vowed to his father to “[live] and [love] as hard as he can,” a promise he has faithfully upheld to this day.
The Real Story of Michael’s Son, Christopher