Actress Melissa Gilbert, best known for her role on Little House on the Prairie, has had to cancel a scheduled event for her lifestyle brand, Modern Prairie, amid serious legal allegations against her husband, actor and director Timothy Busfield. The sudden change has sparked widespread media attention and public reaction.
Gilbert, 61, was set to host a virtual “Ask Melissa Anything” session for Modern Prairie on January 16, 2026. However, the event was abruptly called off just days before it was to take place. In an email to subscribers, the brand said the cancellation was due to “an unexpected scheduling change” and asked for understanding as Gilbert focuses on privacy and family matters.
Serious Charges Against Timothy Busfield
The cancellation comes in the wake of criminal charges filed against Gilbert’s husband, Timothy Busfield, 68, who is facing two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and one count of child abuse in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. According to the arrest warrant, the alleged misconduct involved 11‑year‑old twin boys, who reportedly first met Busfield while he was working as a director on the FOX series The Cleaning Lady. One of the minors claimed the incidents began when he was just seven years old. Busfield turned himself in to authorities on January 13, 2026, and denied all allegations, stating in a video obtained by media outlets that the accusations are “lies” and that he plans to fight the charges.
Modern Prairie Clarifies Its Position
In addition to canceling the event, Modern Prairie — a brand Gilbert co‑founded in 2022 that sells apparel, home goods, and hosts community events — issued its own public statement addressing the situation. The company made it clear that the allegations do not involve Modern Prairie, its operations, or its community, and reaffirmed its commitment to safety, integrity, and respect. The statement emphasized that the brand is “aware of recent media reports regarding serious allegations involving a family member of our brand muse, Melissa Gilbert.” However, it stressed that these matters are personal and not related to the business itself. While the brand condemned abuse in all forms, it also said it would “respect the privacy of the family as they navigate a difficult and personal situation,” indicating ongoing sensitivity around the case.
Gilbert’s Silence and Support
Gilbert has not spoken publicly about the allegations or her husband’s legal situation. Her representatives have stated that she is not making public comments at this time and is honoring the request of Busfield’s attorneys not to speak while the legal process is ongoing. A spokesperson also noted that any online statements — including AI‑generated deepfakes — claiming to be Gilbert’s voice should not be believed unless verified, underscoring the sensitive nature of public discourse around the case. Modern Prairie explained that during this period, Gilbert’s focus is on supporting and caring for their family, and the company asked for privacy as they navigate this moment.
Wider Reaction and Context
The allegations against Busfield, who has appeared in popular shows like The West Wing and Thirtysomething, have drawn significant attention because of both his and Gilbert’s public profiles. The reported incidents are part of a broader investigation, and prosecutors have emphasized that protecting minors remains a central priority. Some media reports also note that Law & Order: Special Victims Unit shelved an episode featuring Busfield, reflecting how the legal case is already affecting his professional engagements. As this is a developing legal matter, updates will likely continue as court proceedings unfold and more information becomes available. For now, Gilbert’s brand activities have paused in light of the serious allegations facing her husband and their family.
