- - Melissa Gilbert’s Son Calls Timothy Busfield the Father Who ‘Showed Up’ Amid Assault Allegations

Jane LaCroixJanuary 17, 2026 at 6:12 PM

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Melissa Gilbert’s youngest son, Michael Boxleitner, is speaking out in support of his stepfather, Timothy Busfield, as the actor faces serious criminal allegations.

In a letter submitted to the court and obtained by PEOPLE on Saturday, Jan. 17, the 30-year-old described Busfield, 68, as a steady father figure. Michael, whom Gilbert shares with ex-husband Bruce Boxleitner, wrote that Busfield has been a constant presence since entering his life as a teenager.

“I have known Timothy Busfield since I was 15 years old,” Michael wrote, reflecting on the relationship that began years before Busfield married his mother in April 2013. As he attempted to capture what his stepfather means to him, Michael admitted the task felt overwhelming. “As I sit here trying to write this letter, I find myself overwhelmed with emotion… trying to find the words that can perfectly encapsulate just how much of an incredible human being my step-father is,” he wrote, adding, “And the answer that keeps coming back to me is that Timothy Busfield is my hero.”

Michael went on to make a striking comparison, writing, “Ever since we met, he has shown up for me as a father more in the 15 years l've known him than my own biological father ever has in the entirety of my life.” He described the West Wing alum as “kind, thoughtful,” and someone who carries “a stalwart integrity all of us could only ever hope to match.”

READ MORE: Melissa Gilbert Begs Court to Protect ‘Sweet Husband’ Timothy Busfield While in Jail

Busfield, 68, surrendered to Albuquerque police on Tuesday, January 13, and was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. The charges stem from alleged incidents involving 11-year-old twin boys during his time directing the second season of FOX’s The Cleaning Lady in 2022.

The letter ended with a direct plea to the judge. “Despite all of the times that he has stepped up for me… I ask you your honor to please take care of him for me.”

Michael’s letter was one of several included in the filing, alongside statements from family members, including Gilbert, 61, who expressed similar gratitude for Busfield’s role in his life. “The reality is that Tim Busfield is my love, my rock, my partner in business and life,” Gilbert’s letter partially read.

In addition to Michael, Gilbert shares a son named Dakota Brinkman, 35, with her first husband, Bo Brinkman. Busfield is also a father of three children from previous relationships.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or visit their website.

This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”