Introduction
Sidney Greenbush is an American former child actress best known for sharing the iconic role of Carrie Ingalls on the beloved television series “Little House on the Prairie” with her identical twin sister, Lindsay. Their shared portrayal of the character left a lasting impression on television audiences and secured their place in American pop culture history. Though her acting career was primarily during her childhood, Sidney’s contribution to one of television’s most cherished series ensures her continued recognition.
Biography Table
| Full Name | Sidney Robyn Greenbush |
|---|---|
| Profession | Former Child Actress |
| Famous For | “Little House on the Prairie” as Carrie Ingalls |
| Age | 54 years (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth | May 25, 1970 |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500,000-$700,000 (2025) |
| Relationship Status | Widowed (Second husband William Foster passed in 2009) |
Early Life & Background
Sidney Robyn Greenbush was born on May 25, 1970, in Los Angeles, California, into a family already connected to the entertainment industry. Her father, Billy Bush (not to be confused with the television personality of the same name), was an actor who appeared in several productions, including the 1974 film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore.” Growing up in a Hollywood family provided Sidney with early exposure to the entertainment world and likely influenced her entry into acting at a young age. Her identical twin sister, Lindsay, would become her acting partner in their most famous role.
Career Journey
Sidney’s acting career began remarkably early, making her first shared screen appearance with her twin sister in the 1973 television movie “Sunshine” when they were just three years old. This early exposure led to their most significant role when they were cast by director and actor Michael Landon in the popular television series “Little House on the Prairie.” The twins alternately portrayed the character of Carrie Ingalls, the third daughter of Charles and Caroline Ingalls, from 1974 to 1982.
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The iconic image of young Carrie falling down in the show’s opening credits became one of the most recognized sequences in television history. Though the twins shared the role due to child labor laws limiting working hours for minors, their collective portrayal created a seamless character beloved by audiences throughout the series’ run. After “Little House on the Prairie,” Sidney’s professional acting career largely concluded as she transitioned into private life.
Personal Life
Sidney’s personal life has been marked by both joy and tragedy. She has been married twice. Her first marriage to Charles Caraccilo ended in divorce in 1998. She later married William “Rocky” Foster, but this relationship ended in tragedy when Foster died by suicide in 2009. This personal loss represented a significant and difficult chapter in her life.
Unlike many former child actors who continued in the entertainment industry, Sidney has largely maintained a private life following her early acting career. Though she occasionally appears at fan conventions and events related to “Little House on the Prairie,” she has chosen a life largely away from the public spotlight.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Sidney Greenbush’s estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $700,000. Her financial resources primarily stem from her work on “Little House on the Prairie,” including potential residuals from the show’s continued syndication and streaming presence. While not as substantial as contemporary child actors might earn, her early work provided a foundation for financial stability. Following her acting career, Sidney has pursued other interests and likely other sources of income, though details of her professional life after acting remain relatively private.
Career Highlights
Sidney’s career highlight remains her shared portrayal of Carrie Ingalls on “Little House on the Prairie,” a role that, though performed during childhood, has had remarkable longevity in American television history. The series continues to find new audiences through syndication and streaming services, ensuring that her work remains visible to new generations. Prior to this signature role, her appearance in the television movie “Sunshine” at age three represented her first professional credit.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Sidney shared all her scenes as Carrie Ingalls with her identical twin sister Lindsay due to child labor laws
- She comes from an acting family, with her father Billy Bush appearing in films like “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore”
- The iconic scene of Carrie falling down in the “Little House on the Prairie” opening credits has become one of television’s most recognized sequences
- She was cast by Michael Landon, who both starred in and directed many episodes of “Little House on the Prairie”
- Despite being a recognizable child star, she chose not to continue in the entertainment industry as an adult
Life After Fame
Following her years on “Little House on the Prairie,” Sidney stepped away from the entertainment industry and pursued a more private life. Unlike many former child actors who struggle with the transition away from early fame, Sidney appears to have successfully built a life beyond her childhood celebrity. She occasionally participates in events celebrating the legacy of “Little House on the Prairie,” connecting with fans who remember her iconic role.
Legacy
Sidney Greenbush’s legacy rests primarily on her contribution to “Little House on the Prairie,” a series that continues to resonate with audiences for its portrayal of American frontier life and family values. Though her time as a professional actress was brief, the cultural impact of the series has given her work a lasting presence in television history. The character she helped create remains beloved by multiple generations of viewers.
FAQ
How old is Sidney Greenbush? Sidney Greenbush is 54 years old as of 2025, having been born on May 25, 1970.
Who played Carrie Ingalls on Little House on the Prairie? The role of Carrie Ingalls was shared by identical twin sisters Sidney and Lindsay Greenbush.
Is Sidney Greenbush still acting? No, Sidney Greenbush retired from professional acting after her childhood role in “Little House on the Prairie.”
What is Sidney Greenbush’s net worth? As of 2025, her estimated net worth is between $500,000-$700,000.
Did Sidney Greenbush come from an acting family? Yes, her father Billy Bush was an actor who appeared in films including “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” (1974).