Melissa Gilbert, the former child star known for Little House on the Prairie, has received a public message of support from a fellow actor following the arrest of her husband, Timothy Busfield, on serious child sex abuse charges.
The Allegations and Arrest
Timothy Busfield, 68, an actor recognised for his role in The West Wing, was taken into custody and now faces formal charges of criminal sexual contact with a minor child under the age of 13, alongside one count of child abuse. The allegations stem from incidents that twin boys claim occurred on the set of the television series The Cleaning Lady, which Busfield was directing.
According to an arrest warrant filed in New Mexico, Busfield allegedly told authorities it was "highly likely" he had physical contact with the accusers. He is accused of inappropriately touching the minors and reportedly told police he aimed to create a "playful environment" on set.
Busfield has vehemently denied all accusations. In a video statement to TMZ, he declared, "They're all lies and I did not do anything to those little boys, and I'm gonna fight it." He added his belief that he would be exonerated.
Support for Melissa Gilbert
In the wake of the news, Melissa Gilbert, 61, has been the subject of public backing from former One Day at a Time star Glenn Scarpelli. Scarpelli, 59, shared a throwback photograph on Instagram featuring himself, Gilbert, and fellow child actress Lisa Whelchel.
His accompanying caption read, "Loving my ol' Friend Melissa Gilbert right now. No commentary, just love… That is all…" He concluded the post with hashtags including #love, #support, and #friendship.
This show of solidarity came as Gilbert faced some online criticism after the brand she co-founded, Modern Prairie, posted a light-hearted video of her giving a tour of a test kitchen refrigerator amidst the ongoing legal crisis. Fans quickly rallied in the comments of Scarpelli's post to voice their support for Gilbert during what they called a "tough time."
Legal Proceedings and Family Statement
Gilbert did not attend her husband's arraignment, which took place in Albuquerque on January 14. A representative for the actress issued a statement explaining her position: "Melissa is honoring the request of Tim's lawyers not to speak publicly while the legal process unfolds."
The statement continued, "During this period, her focus is on supporting and caring for their very large family, as they navigate this moment. Melissa stands with and supports her husband and will address the public at an appropriate time. We ask that their privacy be respected."
Busfield, who has been married to Gilbert since 2013, is currently being held without bond. A judge is set to review a prosecution motion for him to remain in custody until trial during a follow-up court hearing scheduled for January 20.
