Melissa Gilbert asks judge to protect husband Timothy Busfield amid sex abuse charges
- - Melissa Gilbert asks judge to protect husband Timothy Busfield amid sex abuse charges
Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY January 17, 2026 at 9:22 PM
0
Melissa Gilbert is asking a judge to keep her husband, Timothy Busfield, safe as "The Cleaning Lady" director remains in New Mexico facing charges of child sex abuse.
Busfield, 68, was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse on Jan. 9. The charges come after New Mexico authorities issued an arrest warrant and both state police and U.S. Marshals searched for him, according to a criminal complaint viewed by USA TODAY.
Among the over 70 letters of support for Busfield was one from the "Little House on the Prairie" actor, who explained how much her husband means to her.
"The reality is that Tim Busfield is my love, my rock, my partner in business and life. He is my comfort and my council. His joy, humor and quick wit bring sparkle to my life. Tim is, quite simply, the beating heart of our wild and wonderful extended family," Gilbert wrote to a judge of the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court.
Gilbert recounted meeting her husband in the 1980s and crossing paths for decades until they fell in love in 2012. She said this was the "strangest letter I’ve ever had to write" as she tried to "tow a line between logic and all the feelings swirling through me."
Melissa Gilbert and Timothy Busfield attend "The Butcher Boy" opening night at Irish Repertory Theatre on Aug. 1, 2022, in New York City.
"I began this letter with logic, but now the feelings have taken over. I can’t help it. I only want this extraordinary man safe and whole. So, I will close by asking you to please, please, take care of my sweet husband. As he is my protector, I am his, but I cannot protect him now and I think that, more than anything else, is what is truly breaking my heart. I am relying on you to protect him for me," she added.
Gilbert is listed as a potential witness at Busfield's pre-trial detention hearing on Jan. 20, where a judge will determine whether Busfield is bailed or remains behind bars as the case continues.
What has Melissa Gilbert said about claims against husband?
A statement provided to People magazine and Us Weekly on Jan. 13 said that "Melissa stands with and supports her husband and will address the public at an appropriate time."
The statement from the actress said that "any purported 'statements' circulating online — including AI-generated deepfakes of her 'breaking her silence' — should not be treated as coming from her."
Gilbert is "honoring the request" of Busfield's lawyers to refrain from speaking about her husband's case as "the legal process unfolds," according to the statement.
Melissa Gilbert became part of our cultural history at age 8 when she took on the role of Laura Ingalls in the television adaptation of "The Little House on the Prairie". Since then, the actress has continued to make waves as a performer and entrepreneur. See her life in the spotlight, beginning here at "The Little House on the Prairie" 50th anniversary cast reunion and festival in Simi Valley, California on March 23, 2024.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>Melissa Gilbert became part of our cultural history at age 8 when she took on the role of Laura Ingalls in the television adaptation of "The Little House on the Prairie". Since then, the actress has continued to make waves as a performer and entrepreneur. See her life in the spotlight, beginning here at "The Little House on the Prairie" 50th anniversary cast reunion and festival in Simi Valley, California on March 23, 2024.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mxKihPLjHOZ6fruWIm6kxA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/97f1af50641013c1c59e9d554a938fc7 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Melissa Gilbert became part of our cultural history at age 8 when she took on the role of Laura Ingalls in the television adaptation of "The Little House on the Prairie". Since then, the actress has continued to make waves as a performer and entrepreneur. See her life in the spotlight, beginning here at "The Little House on the Prairie" 50th anniversary cast reunion and festival in Simi Valley, California on March 23, 2024.
">Melissa Gilbert became part of our cultural history at age 8 when she took on the role of Laura Ingalls in the television adaptation of "The Little House on the Prairie". Since then, the actress has continued to make waves as a performer and entrepreneur. See her life in the spotlight, beginning here at "The Little House on the Prairie" 50th anniversary cast reunion and festival in Simi Valley, California on March 23, 2024.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mxKihPLjHOZ6fruWIm6kxA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/97f1af50641013c1c59e9d554a938fc7 class=caas-img>app over three years ago with Nicole Haase. Modern Prairie sells housewares and patchwork jeans and offers quilting and cooking lessons. But t he main hope, Gilbert told USA TODAY, is to create community.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>Gilbert launched the Modern Prairie app over three years ago with Nicole Haase. Modern Prairie sells housewares and patchwork jeans and offers quilting and cooking lessons. But t he main hope, Gilbert told USA TODAY, is to create community.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hHnp9QeZEVqn0pu0D1clig--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/90f53e96a43744cf16e53f3608eac68d class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert launched the Modern Prairie app over three years ago with Nicole Haase. Modern Prairie sells housewares and patchwork jeans and offers quilting and cooking lessons. But t he main hope, Gilbert told USA TODAY, is to create community.
">Gilbert launched the Modern Prairie app over three years ago with Nicole Haase. Modern Prairie sells housewares and patchwork jeans and offers quilting and cooking lessons. But t he main hope, Gilbert told USA TODAY, is to create community.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hHnp9QeZEVqn0pu0D1clig--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/90f53e96a43744cf16e53f3608eac68d class=caas-img>Gilbert attends the "Nymphes D'Or - Golden Nymphs" Nominees Party during the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 19, 2023, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DyyTBwqE0wHScuxggz2FIw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0ac008be2ec0ed417ba7a60dfc7287e6 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert attends the "Nymphes D'Or - Golden Nymphs" Nominees Party during the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 19, 2023, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
">Gilbert attends the "Nymphes D'Or - Golden Nymphs" Nominees Party during the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 19, 2023, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DyyTBwqE0wHScuxggz2FIw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0ac008be2ec0ed417ba7a60dfc7287e6 class=caas-img>In January 2026, Gilbert announced that she planned to support Busfield, amid alleged child sex abuse claims against him. The couple married in 2013.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>Gilbert and her husband Timothy Busfield attend "The Butcher Boy" opening night at Irish Repertory Theatre on Aug. 1, 2022 in New York City. In January 2026, Gilbert announced that she planned to support Busfield, amid alleged child sex abuse claims against him. The couple married in 2013.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GHXBr7kPSXlXIhiM5uu49g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/952fc047f7de3c2d749f058b7c11f421 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and her husband Timothy Busfield attend "The Butcher Boy" opening night at Irish Repertory Theatre on Aug. 1, 2022 in New York City. In January 2026, Gilbert announced that she planned to support Busfield, amid alleged child sex abuse claims against him. The couple married in 2013.
">Gilbert and her husband Timothy Busfield attend "The Butcher Boy" opening night at Irish Repertory Theatre on Aug. 1, 2022 in New York City. In January 2026, Gilbert announced that she planned to support Busfield, amid alleged child sex abuse claims against him. The couple married in 2013.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GHXBr7kPSXlXIhiM5uu49g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/952fc047f7de3c2d749f058b7c11f421 class=caas-img>Gilbert and Busfield attend the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 20, 2023 in Monte Carlo, Monaco.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/McLa0lj5DX3VfjMFlbnVWA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/057edea02d9fb3f8f66d50aabbed9eb8 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Busfield attend the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 20, 2023 in Monte Carlo, Monaco.
">Gilbert and Busfield attend the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 20, 2023 in Monte Carlo, Monaco.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/McLa0lj5DX3VfjMFlbnVWA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/057edea02d9fb3f8f66d50aabbed9eb8 class=caas-img>Gilbert and Busfield attend the "Nymphes D'Or - Golden Nymphs" Award Ceremony during the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 20, 2023, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Di_fTbqOgoKEx5CB7hdFhA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/bfddf7ccb012316d501aa74cc87095fd class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Busfield attend the "Nymphes D'Or - Golden Nymphs" Award Ceremony during the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 20, 2023, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
">Gilbert and Busfield attend the "Nymphes D'Or - Golden Nymphs" Award Ceremony during the 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival on June 20, 2023, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Di_fTbqOgoKEx5CB7hdFhA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/bfddf7ccb012316d501aa74cc87095fd class=caas-img>Gilbert attends "Medea" Opening Night at BAM Harvey Theater on Jan. 30, 2020, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0DSOffsOguK.qH_CzMZiHg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4556a519390f2a7a6bf32e12036ed00a class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert attends "Medea" Opening Night at BAM Harvey Theater on Jan. 30, 2020, in New York City.
">Gilbert attends "Medea" Opening Night at BAM Harvey Theater on Jan. 30, 2020, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0DSOffsOguK.qH_CzMZiHg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4556a519390f2a7a6bf32e12036ed00a class=caas-img>Gilbert visits a Barnes & Noble on Jan. 21, 2014, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mmiYoR5a0M7IYI9Gki.N6Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTE2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9158976d51236a045ebfa313e2812cdb class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert visits a Barnes & Noble on Jan. 21, 2014, in New York City.
">Gilbert visits a Barnes & Noble on Jan. 21, 2014, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mmiYoR5a0M7IYI9Gki.N6Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTE2/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9158976d51236a045ebfa313e2812cdb class=caas-img>Gilbert and partner Maks Chmerkovskiy in a 2012 episode of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars."
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0.v1ie4YF1d0QTFMLpt7OA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/820c99d3bdd7f6f10aad86ec98820683 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and partner Maks Chmerkovskiy in a 2012 episode of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars."
">Gilbert and partner Maks Chmerkovskiy in a 2012 episode of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars."
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0.v1ie4YF1d0QTFMLpt7OA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/820c99d3bdd7f6f10aad86ec98820683 class=caas-img>From left, Andie MacDowell, Mark Harmon and Gilbert arrive at the 10th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards Nominations at the Pacific Design Center, Jan. 15, 2004, in Hollywood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/acjaeXY9kgcUp7rYXeOMvQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/652be4d78d087a440084505791530fb1 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
From left, Andie MacDowell, Mark Harmon and Gilbert arrive at the 10th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards Nominations at the Pacific Design Center, Jan. 15, 2004, in Hollywood, California.
">From left, Andie MacDowell, Mark Harmon and Gilbert arrive at the 10th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards Nominations at the Pacific Design Center, Jan. 15, 2004, in Hollywood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/acjaeXY9kgcUp7rYXeOMvQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NzE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/652be4d78d087a440084505791530fb1 class=caas-img>Gilbert and Bruce Boxleitner attend the 56th Annual DGA Awards on Feb. 7, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California. The pair were married from 1995 until 2011.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/cjRbXLDm7a8IAyx8.6ZL5A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzkx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f1348e72ed437f52008c0ef6193f5091 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Bruce Boxleitner attend the 56th Annual DGA Awards on Feb. 7, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California. The pair were married from 1995 until 2011.
">Gilbert and Bruce Boxleitner attend the 56th Annual DGA Awards on Feb. 7, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California. The pair were married from 1995 until 2011.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/cjRbXLDm7a8IAyx8.6ZL5A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzkx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f1348e72ed437f52008c0ef6193f5091 class=caas-img>Gilbert poses backstage during the 10th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium on Feb. 22, 2004, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3lUs8D7JA1HpohnFfryVmw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b6fbd33959a77ff62b1c692ed76edccf class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert poses backstage during the 10th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium on Feb. 22, 2004, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert poses backstage during the 10th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium on Feb. 22, 2004, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/3lUs8D7JA1HpohnFfryVmw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b6fbd33959a77ff62b1c692ed76edccf class=caas-img>Steve Blanchard and Gilbert perform at a rehearsal for the National Tour of "Little House on the Prairie The Musical" at The New 42nd Street Studios on Sept. 2, 2009, in New York City.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/E.39urM0uEzHwKanPjAoDg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MzU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4dda27495945028797513a4757d592ab class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Steve Blanchard and Gilbert perform at a rehearsal for the National Tour of "Little House on the Prairie The Musical" at The New 42nd Street Studios on Sept. 2, 2009, in New York City.
">Steve Blanchard and Gilbert perform at a rehearsal for the National Tour of "Little House on the Prairie The Musical" at The New 42nd Street Studios on Sept. 2, 2009, in New York City.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/E.39urM0uEzHwKanPjAoDg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MzU-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/4dda27495945028797513a4757d592ab class=caas-img>Gilbert promotes a Hallmark Channel movie at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Pasadena, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DaKYjewapWqgPLrDcmwOfg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzAx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/38c4c084369da66e81e86579411087c7 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert promotes a Hallmark Channel movie at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Pasadena, California.
">Gilbert promotes a Hallmark Channel movie at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Pasadena, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DaKYjewapWqgPLrDcmwOfg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzAx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/38c4c084369da66e81e86579411087c7 class=caas-img>Gilbert arrives at the Award Of Excellence Star presentation for the Screen Actors Guild on Hollywood Boulevard Oct. 25, 2007.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TOp5l4u9bhCW5N_BHLlYPw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/33b931e90b08c9040f089558b0d61bba class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert arrives at the Award Of Excellence Star presentation for the Screen Actors Guild on Hollywood Boulevard Oct. 25, 2007.
">Gilbert arrives at the Award Of Excellence Star presentation for the Screen Actors Guild on Hollywood Boulevard Oct. 25, 2007.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TOp5l4u9bhCW5N_BHLlYPw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/33b931e90b08c9040f089558b0d61bba class=caas-img>Benjamin Bratt and Gilbert attend the Screen Actors Guild "Latino Legacy in Hollywood" tribute at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel on Jan. 31, 2003.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GtwTfSsHXXRcKnLgg0nk.g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTEz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/32f74b024db872bd31d93c065d821544 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Benjamin Bratt and Gilbert attend the Screen Actors Guild "Latino Legacy in Hollywood" tribute at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel on Jan. 31, 2003.
">Benjamin Bratt and Gilbert attend the Screen Actors Guild "Latino Legacy in Hollywood" tribute at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel on Jan. 31, 2003.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GtwTfSsHXXRcKnLgg0nk.g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTEz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/32f74b024db872bd31d93c065d821544 class=caas-img>Gilbert and Bai Ling attend Julian Lennon's birthday party at Blowfish May 13, 2004, in West Hollywood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/A2umuDz56q3RzkAGraUqSw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODkz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/bb56d9ab2fa829eed42e7381aff27b38 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Bai Ling attend Julian Lennon's birthday party at Blowfish May 13, 2004, in West Hollywood, California.
">Gilbert and Bai Ling attend Julian Lennon's birthday party at Blowfish May 13, 2004, in West Hollywood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/A2umuDz56q3RzkAGraUqSw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODkz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/bb56d9ab2fa829eed42e7381aff27b38 class=caas-img>Gilbert stands next to her grandmother Julia Crane as she speaks to reporters during a press conference on March 9, 2002, at the SAG Headquarters in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VIjms_.3R2UHvDkMc2kRMA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ab8b51ccf15e653c264d2286c73e69b0 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert stands next to her grandmother Julia Crane as she speaks to reporters during a press conference on March 9, 2002, at the SAG Headquarters in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert stands next to her grandmother Julia Crane as she speaks to reporters during a press conference on March 9, 2002, at the SAG Headquarters in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VIjms_.3R2UHvDkMc2kRMA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ab8b51ccf15e653c264d2286c73e69b0 class=caas-img>Gilbert's sister, Sara, presents her with a Vision Award at the 31st Annual Vision Awards on June 27, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FwovPfFke4LNMCp_MguHeg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNDM3/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9b1c945277f6d02d7300386ddb9de193 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert's sister, Sara, presents her with a Vision Award at the 31st Annual Vision Awards on June 27, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California.
">Gilbert's sister, Sara, presents her with a Vision Award at the 31st Annual Vision Awards on June 27, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FwovPfFke4LNMCp_MguHeg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNDM3/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9b1c945277f6d02d7300386ddb9de193 class=caas-img>Gilbert and Martin Sheen mingle at dinner during the 55th Annual Directors Guild Awards at the Century Plaza Hotel on March 1, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GQt2jZ.7SvR23eiwy8rFtQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTMx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9425bc2c577a1113afb22cb76f2140ef class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Martin Sheen mingle at dinner during the 55th Annual Directors Guild Awards at the Century Plaza Hotel on March 1, 2003, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert and Martin Sheen mingle at dinner during the 55th Annual Directors Guild Awards at the Century Plaza Hotel on March 1, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GQt2jZ.7SvR23eiwy8rFtQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMTMx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9425bc2c577a1113afb22cb76f2140ef class=caas-img>Gilbert and her son arrive at the premiere for "Rugrats Go Wild" at the Cinerama Dome on June 1, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GhIm0yHD5.fvVQoro2AQWg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e2918f801aaa18298d1801b93abd9cea class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and her son arrive at the premiere for "Rugrats Go Wild" at the Cinerama Dome on June 1, 2003, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert and her son arrive at the premiere for "Rugrats Go Wild" at the Cinerama Dome on June 1, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GhIm0yHD5.fvVQoro2AQWg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e2918f801aaa18298d1801b93abd9cea class=caas-img>Gilbert attends the 9th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium on March 9, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/asA85gTBpqfRjueMGzEXPg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0yMTcz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/07c59d48e065455cf47ab9b049379a0a class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert attends the 9th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium on March 9, 2003, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert attends the 9th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium on March 9, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/asA85gTBpqfRjueMGzEXPg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0yMTcz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/07c59d48e065455cf47ab9b049379a0a class=caas-img>Gilbert and Morgan Fairchild attend a news conference at SAG headquarters June 4, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/g1gYYDuSP7em3Oet3tjNEA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0892d3b27ee5ad5e6f1ba7f53d22b6a2 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Morgan Fairchild attend a news conference at SAG headquarters June 4, 2003, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert and Morgan Fairchild attend a news conference at SAG headquarters June 4, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/g1gYYDuSP7em3Oet3tjNEA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05NjA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/0892d3b27ee5ad5e6f1ba7f53d22b6a2 class=caas-img>William H. Macy and Gilbert attend the International Film Festival and Forum on July 27, 2003, in Hollywood, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/opKQMAfxlmWYjbmogap4GA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b2e673eef20f7d761d4d5e5679a9fb23 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
William H. Macy and Gilbert attend the International Film Festival and Forum on July 27, 2003, in Hollywood, California.
">William H. Macy and Gilbert attend the International Film Festival and Forum on July 27, 2003, in Hollywood, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/opKQMAfxlmWYjbmogap4GA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/b2e673eef20f7d761d4d5e5679a9fb23 class=caas-img>Gilbert and AFTRA President John Connolly attend a press conference for SAG and AFTRA members announcing "I Am Voting YES" for union consolidation June 12, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DO4EL_vwyMF7gH2B8wXi2g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7d7a8dc69d3eeac1f4114ed3f7ca815c class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and AFTRA President John Connolly attend a press conference for SAG and AFTRA members announcing "I Am Voting YES" for union consolidation June 12, 2003, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert and AFTRA President John Connolly attend a press conference for SAG and AFTRA members announcing "I Am Voting YES" for union consolidation June 12, 2003, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DO4EL_vwyMF7gH2B8wXi2g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjY-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7d7a8dc69d3eeac1f4114ed3f7ca815c class=caas-img>Gilbert and Connolly, along with other SAG and AFTRA members, join striking UFCW Picket Lines supporting the striking grocery workers outside the Pavilions Market on Dec. 4, 2003, in Burbank, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ITMm3L742pPoUS.GjCSpdg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MzA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7e87aae0bc8d812969d688e6482a838e class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Connolly, along with other SAG and AFTRA members, join striking UFCW Picket Lines supporting the striking grocery workers outside the Pavilions Market on Dec. 4, 2003, in Burbank, California.
">Gilbert and Connolly, along with other SAG and AFTRA members, join striking UFCW Picket Lines supporting the striking grocery workers outside the Pavilions Market on Dec. 4, 2003, in Burbank, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ITMm3L742pPoUS.GjCSpdg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MzA-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7e87aae0bc8d812969d688e6482a838e class=caas-img>Gilbert poses backstage during the 8th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium March 10, 2002, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Hx9JElASP5bmnFxfKfUKVw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/afd59bc491709465487e9e32015d0705 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert poses backstage during the 8th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium March 10, 2002, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert poses backstage during the 8th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium March 10, 2002, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Hx9JElASP5bmnFxfKfUKVw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODU5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/afd59bc491709465487e9e32015d0705 class=caas-img>Gilbert attends the Hollywood Reporters' Annual Women In Entertainment: Power 100 Breakfast on Dec. 3, 2002.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uPz01OAYHOMWJYe1bHu6ww--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9c64952bb594763348cc2d3881b29844 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert attends the Hollywood Reporters' Annual Women In Entertainment: Power 100 Breakfast on Dec. 3, 2002.
">Gilbert attends the Hollywood Reporters' Annual Women In Entertainment: Power 100 Breakfast on Dec. 3, 2002.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uPz01OAYHOMWJYe1bHu6ww--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9c64952bb594763348cc2d3881b29844 class=caas-img>Gilbert arrives at the Nineteenth Annual Golden Boot Awards Aug. 11, 2001, in Beverly Hills, California.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yok_YIz5cCAXhaG6GvzWtg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTA1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cf5d80f48ac047b7882edc25f59a2cf2 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert arrives at the Nineteenth Annual Golden Boot Awards Aug. 11, 2001, in Beverly Hills, California.
">Gilbert arrives at the Nineteenth Annual Golden Boot Awards Aug. 11, 2001, in Beverly Hills, California.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yok_YIz5cCAXhaG6GvzWtg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xOTA1/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/cf5d80f48ac047b7882edc25f59a2cf2 class=caas-img>Gilbert and family attend the 70th Anniversary Hollywood Christmas Parade Nov. 25, 2001, in Los Angeles..
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vyIhUqL45dayFM8y5BY78w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/436e6cc02e70ffa9fb5b08b32802c4ea class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and family attend the 70th Anniversary Hollywood Christmas Parade Nov. 25, 2001, in Los Angeles..
">Gilbert and family attend the 70th Anniversary Hollywood Christmas Parade Nov. 25, 2001, in Los Angeles..
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vyIhUqL45dayFM8y5BY78w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzgx/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/436e6cc02e70ffa9fb5b08b32802c4ea class=caas-img>Gilbert and her 5-year-old son Michael pose with Santa Claus on Nov. 28, 2000, in Los Angeles.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/iQuFBbtpETLyEzxeC0x_0w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzMw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2220d2f8239a2ab960d5404d57c4fc4e class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and her 5-year-old son Michael pose with Santa Claus on Nov. 28, 2000, in Los Angeles.
">Gilbert and her 5-year-old son Michael pose with Santa Claus on Nov. 28, 2000, in Los Angeles.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/iQuFBbtpETLyEzxeC0x_0w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzMw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2220d2f8239a2ab960d5404d57c4fc4e class=caas-img>Gilbert and Boxlightner pose as they arrive at the Golden Boot Awards in Beverly Hills on Aug. 5, 2000.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DutXnrBvdZrWvfazY5nKVg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e11033907b083197e6374a11cb93d54f class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert and Boxlightner pose as they arrive at the Golden Boot Awards in Beverly Hills on Aug. 5, 2000.
">Gilbert and Boxlightner pose as they arrive at the Golden Boot Awards in Beverly Hills on Aug. 5, 2000.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DutXnrBvdZrWvfazY5nKVg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e11033907b083197e6374a11cb93d54f class=caas-img>Gilbert talks with Leeza Gibbons on the "Leeza" show about the premature birth of her son, Michael, in April of 1996.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/RP_EsE5f0SDKAM8SOBkHLw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/828d02afc0f5c6b6dd379e1bf5441b56 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert talks with Leeza Gibbons on the "Leeza" show about the premature birth of her son, Michael, in April of 1996.
">Gilbert talks with Leeza Gibbons on the "Leeza" show about the premature birth of her son, Michael, in April of 1996.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/RP_EsE5f0SDKAM8SOBkHLw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/828d02afc0f5c6b6dd379e1bf5441b56 class=caas-img>Gilbert starred in an NBC Miniseries "Zoya" in 1995 as a young girl born into Russian royalty and then orphaned in the revolution of 1917 and raised by her grandmother.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/P9l_We6X97ensuxAxr816A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMDA0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8c0c5a9256a1a7b46eec2624baa66656 class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Gilbert starred in an NBC Miniseries "Zoya" in 1995 as a young girl born into Russian royalty and then orphaned in the revolution of 1917 and raised by her grandmother.
">Gilbert starred in an NBC Miniseries "Zoya" in 1995 as a young girl born into Russian royalty and then orphaned in the revolution of 1917 and raised by her grandmother.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/P9l_We6X97ensuxAxr816A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMDA0/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8c0c5a9256a1a7b46eec2624baa66656 class=caas-img>Cicely Tyson and Gilbert in "Sweet Justice" in 1994.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NhKj7GS2Yu2jD4rDM6ctJA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c1e3d8994f298043f32d52b8d1a6f5bb class=caas-img data-headline="See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'" data-caption="
Cicely Tyson and Gilbert in "Sweet Justice" in 1994.
">Cicely Tyson and Gilbert in "Sweet Justice" in 1994.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NhKj7GS2Yu2jD4rDM6ctJA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNTUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/c1e3d8994f298043f32d52b8d1a6f5bb class=caas-img>
1 / 35See Melissa Gilbert, from 'Little House' to 'Dancing with the 'Stars'
Melissa Gilbert became part of our cultural history at age 8 when she took on the role of Laura Ingalls in the television adaptation of "The Little House on the Prairie". Since then, the actress has continued to make waves as a performer and entrepreneur. See her life in the spotlight, beginning here at "The Little House on the Prairie" 50th anniversary cast reunion and festival in Simi Valley, California on March 23, 2024.
When did Timothy Busfield and Melissa Gilbert get married?
Busfield and Gilbert were married April 24, 2013, in a private ceremony at San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, according to People. The pair moved to Michigan, where Busfield is from, following their wedding.
Though the couple are both parents, they do not share biological children.
Gilbert has two sons from her previous marriages to "Gettysburg" actor Bo Brinkman and "How the West Was Won" actor and sci-fi writer Bruce Boxleitner.
Meanwhile, Busfield has three children: one with actress and director Radha Delamarter, and two with fashion designer Jennifer Merwin.
What is Timothy Busfield accused of?
Busfield has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse.
The charges involve two minors who appeared in the series "The Cleaning Lady," which Busfield directed, according to a criminal complaint filed by an investigator with the Albuquerque Police Department.
Busfield's abuse of the minors allegedly occurred between late 2022 and early 2024. One child alleged that Busfield had touched his genitals several times. Both say Busfield touched them inappropriately and instructed them to call him "Uncle Tim."
According to the complaint, the children's mother reported the incidents to Child Protective Services. One child has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, and feared disclosing the alleged abuse because of retaliation from Busfield, the complaint claims. In 2024, University of New Mexico Hospital staff members requested an investigation because it appeared the boys were being groomed.
According to the affidavit, Busfield acknowledged to police in a phone interview on speaker phone with Gilbert present that the set was a "playful environment" and that he had "likely" tickled the boys. He suggested the allegations were a form of revenge because the boys had been fired from the show. Production assistants told Albuquerque police that Busfield was sometimes touchy or unprofessional.
Contributing: Taijuan Moorman, Laura Trujillo, Pamela Avila, Anna Kaufman, Edward Segarra and Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Melissa Gilbert pleads for Timothy Busfield's safety amid sex abuse charges
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
