In Memory of Steve Tracy ('Little House on the Prairie'): 38 Years After His Tragic Death From AIDS

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It’s been nearly forty years since the tragic demise of actor Steve Tracy, best known for his recurring role as Percival Dalton on TV’s Little House on the Prairie (NBC, 1974–1983). One of the first actors to be diagnosed with and die from the AIDs virus, Tracy passed away in 1986 at only 34 years old. This is his story.

A Closer Look

Steve Tracy was born Stephen Crumrine on October 3, 1952, in Canton, Ohio, into a close Irish-German family.

In his youth, Tracy participated in school plays and community theater productions. He later attended Kent State University, where he honed his theatrical craft in several stage plays.

Tracy eventually moved to Los Angeles, enrolled in the Theatre Department at Los Angeles City College, and continued to perform in live theatre productions. He also took classes at the Harvey Lembeck Comedy Workshop and was soon cast in various movies and TV shows.

In 1980, Tracy joined the cast of Little House on the Prairie as the sweet and kind Percival, playing opposite Alison Arngrim as Nellie Oleson.

Behind the camera, Tracy was diagnosed with AIDS, which was then widely misunderstood and stigmatized. With acclaimed bravery, he revealed his condition to the public hoping to raise awareness and dispel misconceptions surrounding the disease. He remained in the public eye, participating in projects such as “AIDS/US: Portraits in Personal Courage,” a theatrical production that aimed to shed light on the experiences of individuals affected by AIDS.

In the End

On November 27, 1986, Steve Tracy passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of light and inspiration.