Melissa Gilbert released a statement Monday through her lifestyle company, Modern Prairie, saying it has been a “very difficult time” following her husband Timothy Busfield’s child molestation allegations.
“I send all my love and gratitude during this extremely difficult time. Not only Tim, myself, and our family, but so many of us seem to be collectively burdened by the burdens we’re carrying right now. Add to this an unexpected storm, and it can all feel a little too much,” the “Little House on the Prairie” actor wrote on Instagram.
“This season has been a stark reminder to me how important it is to slow down, prioritize what’s really important, and get some rest,” she continued. “Sometimes stepping away from the noise, the news, and even our daily responsibilities gives us the space to recharge, reflect, and find our center again.
“I am so grateful for the love, patience, and support that you continue to show Tim and I. Thank you for helping me feel safer, more grounded, and deeply supported by our amazing community of women here at Modern Prairie. I will return to things thoughtfully and deliberately, and take one step at a time. There is more to come, and I am always so grateful.”
Busfield, an actor known for his roles in “Thirty Something,” “The West Wing,” and “Field of Dreams,” was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and one count of child abuse. He is accused of touching a 7-year-old boy’s “private area” while directing an episode of “The Cleaning Lady.” (The boy and his twin brother were actors on the Fox series.) Busfield was released from a prison in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on January 20 and is awaiting trial on these charges.
At the time of Busfield’s arrest, Gilbert released the following statement through a publicist: “Melissa Gilbert has not made any public statements at this time. Alleged ‘statements’ circulating online (including an AI-generated deepfake of her ‘breaking her silence’) are from herself. She is respecting Tim’s attorney’s request not to speak publicly while the legal process is ongoing.During this period, her focus will be on supporting and caring for her extended family, and will speak to the public at the appropriate time. ”
