Melissa Gilbert speaks out after Timothy Busfield’s release from jail: ‘One step at a time’

It’s been really tough lately, but I’m glad to see Melissa Gilbert starting to reappear on social media. She and her husband, Timothy Busfield, have been going through a really difficult time with this whole child sex abuse case, and it’s good to see her finding a way to connect with people again.

Melissa Gilbert, 61, known for her role in “Little House on the Prairie,” recently posted on Instagram for the first time in a while. She shared a message of thanks and personal thoughts on the Instagram page for her lifestyle brand, Modern Prairie. This comes after she briefly removed her personal Instagram account when accusations surfaced against her husband.

She shared a thoughtful message with a photo of herself relaxing, explaining that this season has really highlighted the need to slow down and focus on what’s most important. Taking breaks from the constant noise of news and everyday tasks, she believes, allows us to rest, think, and reconnect with ourselves.

A New Mexico judge recently issued an arrest warrant for 68-year-old Emmy winner Busfield, charging him with two felonies related to sexual contact with a minor and one count of child abuse. Court documents allege Busfield inappropriately touched two brothers who were child actors while he worked as an actor, director, and producer on the Fox television show, “The Cleaning Lady.”

Entertainment & Arts

I was surprised to learn that Timothy Busfield was allowed to remain free while he awaits his trial regarding the serious accusations against him in New Mexico. The judge decided he doesn’t need to be held in custody during this time, and I find that quite unsettling considering the nature of the allegations.

The lawsuit claims a former child actor alleges that Bryan Busfield repeatedly touched him inappropriately when he was seven years old while on set. The actor also stated that Busfield committed similar acts of inappropriate touching multiple times the following year, when he was eight. The complaint further details a police interview where Busfield reportedly suggested the boys’ mother may have been motivated by revenge because he didn’t recast her children for the show’s final season.

Following the accusations against Busfield, Modern Prairie released a statement on Instagram saying they strongly condemn all forms of abuse. They reaffirmed their commitment to safety, integrity, and respect.

On January 13th, Busfield voluntarily spoke with law enforcement and strongly denied the accusations against him, stating, “I did not do anything to those little boys.” At the time, a spokesperson for Gilbert said she wouldn’t be commenting on her husband’s case and dismissed any claims of statements from her. The spokesperson added that her priority was caring for their family. Busfield has three grown children from past relationships and is also a stepfather to Gilbert’s two adult sons from her previous marriages.

Television

Timothy Busfield, known for his role on ‘The West Wing’, has turned himself in to police and is now in custody. He is facing accusations of child sexual abuse. Authorities confirmed he surrendered on Tuesday.

Actor Peter Busfield, who appeared in shows like “The West Wing” and “Thirtysomething,” was initially held at a jail in Albuquerque. However, he was released on January 20th, agreeing to appear in court as required. During the hearing to decide if he would be released, his wife, Gilbert, was visibly emotional and expressed relief when the judge made the decision.

Honestly, it’s been a tough time lately with everything going on with my family, and I just wanted to express my gratitude to everyone in the Modern Prairie community. Their support really meant the world to me – it genuinely helped me feel safer, more stable, and like I belonged during a period where I really needed that.

She explained she’s slowly returning to her normal activities, taking things carefully and making steady progress. She promised to share updates soon and expressed deep appreciation for the support she’s received.

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2026-01-28 03:03