Melissa Gilbert is defending her husband, actor Timothy Busfield, after he was arrested on allegations of child sexual abuse. In a preview of an upcoming interview with George Stephanopoulos on Good Morning America, Gilbert, 61, described the arrest as “the most traumatizing experience of our lives.”

Impact on Their Life

“Our life as we knew it is done,” Gilbert stated. “We are grieving what we had — all of our plans, all of our dreams, all of our ideas, all of our projects.” She expressed concern that Busfield’s career is effectively over, stating, “For Tim, it’s done. He’s canceled.”

Unwavering Support and Belief in Innocence

Gilbert firmly believes in her husband’s innocence. “Even if he’s exonerated, he will always be that guy,” she acknowledged, but added, “the last person in the world who would hurt a child. And believe me, if I thought for a second that Tim Busfield hurt a child, he’d have a lot more to worry about than prison.”

Details of the Allegations

An arrest warrant was issued for Busfield, 68, in January, according to Us Weekly, with charges including two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and child abuse. The allegations stem from his work on the Fox series The Cleaning Lady.

The Incident on Set

Busfield is accused of inappropriate behavior toward a 7-year-old child actor during filming. Legal documents indicate the young actor was “very afraid of Tim and was relieved when he was off set.” The child and his twin brother both worked on the show.

Busfield's Response and Legal Proceedings

The Albuquerque Police Department questioned Busfield in November 2025 regarding the claims. Busfield denied any “physical contact” with the children, stating he barely remembered them. He claimed, “I don’t remember those boys… If it happened, I don’t remember overtly tickling the boys ever, but it wouldn’t be uncommon for me.”

Busfield surrendered to authorities in New Mexico, maintaining his innocence. In a video shared with TMZ in January, he stated, “I’m going to confront these lies. They’re horrible. They’re all lies, and I did not do anything to those little boys.” He expressed confidence in his eventual exoneration.

Following a grand jury indictment in February, Busfield pleaded not guilty to four counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor. He could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

Gilbert's Public Statement and Support

Gilbert has consistently voiced her support for Busfield publicly. In a January Instagram post, she expressed gratitude for the support she and her family were receiving during this “extraordinarily difficult time.” She emphasized the importance of slowing down and prioritizing what truly matters.

“Thank you, truly, for the love, patience, and support you continue to show Tim and me,” she wrote. The complete interview with George Stephanopoulos is scheduled to air on Monday, April 6.

If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text the Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.