Melissa Gilbert Shares Her Joy in Seeing Husband Timothy Busfield as a Loving Stepdad to Her Son Michael
A photo of Melissa Gilbert, her son Michael Boxleitner, and Timothy Busfield.
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Melissa Gilbert Backs Husband Timothy Busfield Amid Child Abuse Allegations
Melissa Gilbert expressed unwavering support for her husband Timothy Busfield as he faces child sex abuse allegations. In a character letter submitted to the court, Gilbert highlighted Busfield’s role as a stepfather, emphasizing the positive influence he has had on her son, Michael Boxleitner.
In a court filing obtained on January 17, Gilbert detailed her admiration for Busfield, who was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. "One of the great joys of my life has been watching Tim interact with my youngest son, Michael," Gilbert wrote.
Describing Michael as a “full blown, angst-ridden teenager” when she and Busfield began their relationship in 2012, Gilbert noted how Busfield has “nurtured and guided” her son over the years. She described Busfield’s approach as multifaceted, encompassing love, support, and care in both physical and emotional aspects.
Gilbert, who shares Michael with her ex-husband Bruce Boxleitner and is also the mother of Dakota Brinkman from her first marriage to Bo Brinkman, expressed profound gratitude towards Busfield, referring to him as the “beating heart of our wild and wonderful extended family.” She characterized him as her “rock,” stating that his “joy, humor, and quick wit bring sparkle to my life.”
In a similar vein, Michael Boxleitner submitted his own character letter, praising Busfield’s support. He stated that Busfield “has shown up for me as a father” more than his biological dad, highlighting Busfield’s kindness and integrity.
Busfield, 68, was charged in New Mexico after surrendering to police on January 13. The charges relate to incidents reportedly occurring while he was directing the show The Cleaning Lady, involving allegations from 11-year-old twin boys. He has denied all charges, expressing his intent to confront what he calls lies.
His attorney, Larry Stein, confirmed Busfield’s shock at the accusations and emphasized his commitment to defending himself. “He’s devastated and will defend himself, because these are absolutely false allegations,” Stein stated.
Currently, Busfield remains in custody without bond, with a pretrial detention hearing scheduled for January 20. Gilbert has been listed as a potential witness in the case.
Michael Boxleitner and Melissa Gilbert on April 3, 2011 in Los Angeles, California.
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Melissa Gilbert and Timothy Busfield on October 27, 2025 in New York City.
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