Melissa Gilbert’s Son Michael Praises Stepdad Timothy Busfield as His Hero for Being There When It Matters Most

Melissa Gilbert; Melissa Gilbert’s son Michael Boxleitner in 2011; Timothy Busfield.

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NEED TO KNOW

• Melissa Gilbert’s son Michael Boxleitner wrote a character letter in support of stepdad Timothy Busfield as he faces child sex abuse charges.
• Michael called Busfield his “hero” and stated he “has shown up for me as a father more in the 15 years I’ve known him than my own biological father ever has in the entirety of my life.”
• Gilbert, who shares Michael with ex-husband Bruce Boxleitner, also wrote a letter in support of Busfield.

Melissa Gilbert’s son has publicly expressed support for his stepfather, Timothy Busfield, who is currently facing serious child sex abuse allegations. Michael Boxleitner, 30, submitted a character letter in which he described the 68-year-old actor as his "hero" and emphasized how Busfield has been more present in his life than his biological father.

In the court filing dated January 17, Michael noted that he has known Busfield since he was 15 and that the actor became his stepfather in April 2013. "As I sit here trying to write this letter, I find myself overwhelmed with emotion," Michael stated. He added, “Since we met, he has shown up for me as a father more in the 15 years I’ve known him than my own biological father ever has in the entirety of my life."

Amidst the ongoing legal troubles, Michael praised Busfield’s integrity, calling him "kind" and "thoughtful." Michael’s letter serves as part of a broader expression of support from family, which also includes Gilbert, who reflected on the positive influence Busfield has had on their family.

Busfield, known for his role in Field of Dreams, was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse on January 13 in New Mexico. These charges are related to incidents alleged to have occurred while he was directing the second season of the Fox series The Cleaning Lady in 2022. The alleged victims are reported to be 11-year-old twin boys.

In his letter, Michael further expressed his admiration for Busfield’s professional qualities, stating, “I have been able to witness these qualities not only as his step-son but as a professional actor as well.” He described Busfield as someone who creates an inclusive and joyful work environment, making every day worth showing up for.

As he concluded his letter, Michael appealed to the judge handling his stepfather’s case, asking, “Your honor, the quality of Tim’s character is unlike anyone I’ve ever known, and probably ever will know.”

Sam Boxleitner, Michael Boxleitner, and Melissa Gilbert in 2009.

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The support for Busfield extends beyond Michael, with several family members, including Gilbert, offering similar sentiments. Gilbert shared her gratitude for Busfield’s role in Michael’s life, stating, "One of the great joys of my life has been watching Tim interact with my youngest son, Michael."

Gilbert described the nurturing bond between her son and Busfield during a challenging teenage phase, expressing her deep appreciation for the guidance and love Busfield provided. “I will never be able to express the depth of gratitude I have to God for bringing this wonderful human into our lives,” she concluded.

Melissa Gilbert and Timothy Busfield in 2023.

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Michael’s character letter was among several in the January 17 filing, including letters from his girlfriend and other family members. His girlfriend noted that Michael’s positive traits stem from having Busfield as a role model, while Gilbert emphasized the profound impact Busfield has had on her son’s life.