Court documents have revealed that actor Timothy Busfield is receiving support from several high-profile friends in Hollywood following his arrest on charges of child sex abuse. The 68-year-old star of The West Wing is accused of inappropriately touching twin boys on the set of the television series The Cleaning Lady between 2022 and 2024.
Legal Battle and Character Defence
Busfield has denied all wrongdoing and is currently being held without bond ahead of his next court appearance. His legal team recently filed a motion challenging this detention, arguing prosecutors lack 'proof' that the community would be in danger if he was released.
The motion included multiple letters from colleagues vouching for his character. Actor and director Peter Horton, alongside actors Patricia Wettig and Mackenzie Astin, all provided written statements. The filing also contained intimate details about Busfield's personal life, including his 'satisfying sex life' with wife Melissa Gilbert, though stating they 'enjoy cuddling more than sex'. It noted he sometimes masturbates in the shower as it is 'easier', with the last instance being six months ago.
Statements from Co-Stars and Colleagues
Peter Horton, who worked with Busfield on Thirtysomething, described him as a 'good man' and offered his perspective as a father of two girls. Patricia Wettig, who played his wife on the same show, praised his professionalism during intimate scenes and said he always ensured children on set 'felt comfortable and safe'.
Mackenzie Astin credited Busfield with helping save his acting career after struggles with alcoholism, stating a small role Busfield gave him 'made a significant impact on my recovery'. Melissa Gilbert, Busfield's wife since 2013, pleaded with the judge to 'protect' her husband, calling him compassionate and honourable.
Allegations, Denials, and Counter-Claims
Busfield's attorneys claim the allegations surfaced only after the two boys lost their roles on the show, suggesting a financial and retaliatory motive. They detailed what they called a clear history of fraud by the twins' parents and cited an internal investigation by Warner Bros. that found the allegations unfounded.
However, police reports state one boy alleged Busfield touched his 'private areas' while he was on a bed on set, and he was afraid to speak out because Busfield was the director. The child has since been diagnosed with PTSD and anxiety. His brother also reported being touched, though was less specific.
Busfield vehemently denies the charges, telling TMZ: 'They're all lies and I did not do anything to those little boys.' He is due back in court on January 20, where a judge will decide whether he must remain in custody until trial.
