Michael Boxleitner has made headlines recently. He came out in support of his stepdad, Timothy Busfield, who faces child sex abuse allegations. Melissa Gilbert’s youngest adult son wrote a character letter for The Thirtysomething alum. Michael Boxleitner wrote that Busfield has shown up for him as a father more than his biological dad. As per a Saturday, January 17 court filing obtained by People Magazine, this statement was made in the court documents.
As per another report shared by People Magazine, Michael’s mum, Melissa Gilbert, had been married to Bruce Boxleitner from 1995 to 2011. Timothy and Melissa married in April 2013 in a small ceremony that took place in Santa Barbara, California.
Melissa became stepmother to Bruce’s two older sons from his first marriage. Bruce has two sons named Sam and Lee Davis Boxleitner. Sam is the eldest according to both brothers’ IMDb pages. He was born on July 19, 1980, and Lee was born on November 16, 1985. The brothers formed the independent production company Blue House Productions in 2004. Blue House has produced a slew of short films and music videos since it started. Several have been official selections in major film festivals.
Michael Boxleitner praised stepdad in a court statement:
Michael Boxleitner, who describes himself as an “actor, voice actor, and bartender” on his Instagram, began his statement for Timothy Busfield by writing that he has known Busfield since he was 15 years old. As per the report shared by People Magazine, Michael wrote about how difficult it was to put his feelings into words.
“As I sit here trying to write this letter, I find myself overwhelmed with emotion, my mind flooded with so many memories, trying to find the words that can perfectly encapsulate just how much of an incredible human being my step-father is. And the answer that keeps coming back to me is that Timothy Busfield is my hero,” he said.
Michael Boxleitner then explained why Busfield means so much to him.
“Ever since we met, he has shown up for me as a father more in the 15 years l’ve known him than my own biological father ever has in the entirety of my life. He is kind, thoughtful, and carries himself with a stalwart integrity all of us could only ever hope to match,” Michael continued.
Timothy Busfield was charged over incidents that allegedly happened while directing The Cleaning Lady in 2022:
Busfield turned himself in to Albuquerque police on Tuesday, January 13. As per a report shared by People Magazine, he was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor. He was also charged with one count of child abuse. The charges were filed in New Mexico.
As per a report shared by The Guardian, Gilbert Gallegos, the spokesperson for the Albuquerque police department, confirmed Busfield surrendered. Reports had surfaced that US marshals were helping the agency in searching for the Emmy winner.
Busfield recorded a video that has since been shared by TMZ. He denied the allegationsinvolving the abuse of two preteen boys.
“I’m going to confront these lies – they’re horrible. They’re all lies, and I did not do anything to those little boys, and I’m going to fight it,” Busfield said.
The charges relate to incidents that allegedly occurred during production. Busfield was directing The Cleaning Lady at the time. He directed season two. As per the report shared by People, the FOX series aired in 2022. The case involves two 11-year-old boys who are twins.
Michael Boxleitner included observations about Busfield in his letter. He wrote about working with him.
“I have been able to witness these qualities not only as his step-son, but as a professional actor as well,” he wrote.
Michael Boxleitner described his experiences with Busfield.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Tim multiple times, either behind the camera or on stage and I think I can say on behalf of everyone that’s worked with him before, that he makes everyday at work worth showing up for. As a director, he creates a space where all feel welcome and equal, filling the days with light and laughter while keeping a professional setting,” Michael continued.
Michael Boxleitner then finished the letter by praising Busfield. He asked the judge to treat him well.
“Your honor, the quality of Tim’s character is unlike anyone l’ve ever known, and probably ever will know. There is no man on this earth more worthy of respect, kindness and care in my eyes.”
“Despite all of the times that he has stepped up for me, right now in this moment, I feel so powerless to do the same for him, so I ask you your honor to please take care of him for me,” Michael added.
Edited by Priscillah Mueni