The Waltons: Q & A

Nov. 25—Cast members from two of the most beloved classic television shows, The Waltons and Little House on the Prairie, will appear together at the North Alabama Christmas Market in Rogersville on Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m-4 p.m. The event will be held at The Cotton Gin at Roberson Farms located at 6810 County Road 91.

Actors from the Waltons who will be featured at the event include Mary Beth McDonough (Erin Walton), Leslie Winston (Cindy Walton), Eric Scott (Ben Walton), and Reen Christie Bula (Marcia Woolery).

They, along with several other Walton cast favorites, recently reflected on their time on The Waltons and spoke about what they have been involved in since the show.

Kami Cotler (Elizabeth Walton)

How do you think playing your character affected your life? Are there any regrets?Fans experience the show differently than actors. For us, the experience isn't primarily the characters and stories we portray; it's working with other performers and the crew. I worked with all kinds of extraordinary people. I think if you watch the show, you can imagine how special it is to be surrounded by the cast, but the crew was just as remarkable. I'm fortunate to have grown up with people from all kinds of backgrounds and experiences, who were willing to be patient and share their stories and wisdom with a curious little girl.

Mary Elizabeth McDonough (Erin Walton)

What is the main thing you've done since the show ended? If you stopped acting, why did you stop?I raised a family. I have written three books. A memoir "Lessons From The Mountain, What I Learned from Erin Walton," and two novels. "One Year" and "Christmas On Honeysuckle Lane." As an actor I played Mrs. Wilhoite on "The New Adventures of Old Christine." Guest stared on several TV shows, including "ER," "Will & Grace," "Boston Legal," My novel "Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane" was made into a Hallmark movie and I played Caro Reynolds. My new movie, "Contested Plains," will come out next year. I play Lydia German. It's based on a true story of a family that crossed the plains.

Jon Walmsley (Jason Walton)

What prompted you to audition for The Homecoming? Were you automatically cast for the show?

I had been acting professionally for about 5 years prior to The Homecoming, so it was just another in a series of many auditions. Movies for television were a relatively new concept in 1971, so I was excited about it, as it was something a bit different than what I was used to. The producers tried to maintain as many of The Homecoming cast as possible. Some weren't available, and we ended up with Ralph Waite, Michael Learned, and Will Geer — who were perfect for their roles.

Leslie Winston (Cindy Walton- wife of Ben Walton)

What was your favorite episode(s)?"The Outsider," when Grandma gives Cindy a broom to swat Ben and calls him a young fool.

Also, "The Outrage." A two-hour episode. So many emotional and powerful moments from the whole cast, including the one where I have to shoot the horse. Very difficult and touching.

Rachel Longaker (Aimee Louise Godsey)

Did you watch the show?

I watched the show before I was cast as Aimee Godsey — my whole family would watch it every Thursday night and it was amazing to actually be on the set, having watched the show and been such a fan.

Eric Scott (Ben Walton)

In regard to you life, what do you feel your legacy is?Of course being on one of the best television shows in history is quite humbling, however being a Father for my three children is my legacy, something that brings me much joy and happiness.

Judy Norton (Mary Ellen Walton)

Are you anything like the character you played?Definitely a tomboy like Mary Ellen. I was also 13 in real life like the character, so I could relate to all the awkwardness of that age.