Melissa Gilbert Resumes Role at Modern Prairie Amid Family Turmoil
Melissa Gilbert has officially announced her return to the position of Chief Creative Officer at her lifestyle brand, Modern Prairie, following a period of absence that she described as necessary to focus on her family. This decision comes amidst the ongoing legal proceedings involving her husband, actor and director Timothy Busfield, who faces serious child sex abuse charges.
Gilbert's Emotional Announcement and Commitment
In a heartfelt video posted to Instagram, the 31-year-old former Little House on the Prairie star addressed her community directly. "I stepped away for a little while to focus on my family," Gilbert explained. "It was time I needed, time to be present, to tend to what matters most and to gather my strength in a season that has not been easy."
Gilbert emphasized that her return to professional duties does not signify a reduction in her dedication to supporting her family through their challenges. "Coming back to work does not change my commitment or my resolve to the journey that lies ahead for my family," she stated firmly. She expressed profound gratitude for the support and prayers received from the Modern Prairie community during her absence.
The Allegations Against Timothy Busfield
Timothy Busfield, 68, has been indicted on four counts of sexual contact with a child by a grand jury in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. The charges stem from allegations that he inappropriately touched two 11-year-old twin boys, identified in court documents as VL and SL, on the set of the television series The Cleaning Lady between November 2022 and spring 2024.
Busfield has vehemently denied all accusations, with his legal team suggesting the allegations may be part of a revenge plot orchestrated by the boys' parents after the children lost their roles on the show. He turned himself in to authorities last month and was subsequently released from custody on his own recognizance on January 20.
Court Proceedings and Conditions of Release
During the January 20 hearing, Gilbert was visibly emotional in the courtroom, surrounded by family members including her mother Barbara Cowan and her son Michael Boxleitner. When the judge announced Busfield's release, Gilbert was seen weeping and whispering, "Thank you, God."
Busfield's release comes with strict conditions:
- He must appear at all court proceedings
- He must maintain no contact with the alleged victims or their families
- He is prohibited from unsupervised contact with any minor children
- He cannot possess firearms or weapons
- He must abstain from alcohol and illegal drugs
Legal Arguments and Evidence
Assistant District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch described the evidence against Busfield as "strong and specific," noting that the boys' allegations are supported by medical findings and therapist records. She also expressed concerns about potential retaliation against witnesses.
In contrast, Busfield's defense team has presented character references and claims he passed an independent polygraph test. New Mexico is among the few states that allow polygraph evidence in criminal cases, though admissibility remains at the judge's discretion with strict requirements.
Modern Prairie's Continued Mission
In her announcement, Gilbert reinforced the core values of Modern Prairie, describing it as "more than products, it's more than events, it's more than a brand — it's a lifeline, it's a connection, it's strength shared." The brand's official statement emphasized that their purpose remains unchanged: building a lifestyle platform rooted in connection, creativity, dignity, and strength.
Gilbert concluded her message with determination: "I am so proud to walk forward with you, so let's get back at it together." The case against Busfield is expected to proceed to trial as the Bernalillo County District Attorney's Office has vowed to pursue justice for the alleged victims.
