Hallmark star Melissa Gilbert is receiving love from a childhood friend as she continues to navigate her husband, Timothy Busfield’s, legal troubles.
On Jan. 18, the “When Calls the Heart” star received a message of support from fellow former child star Mary McDonough, whom she met during her “Little House on the Prairie” days nearly 50 years ago.
McDonough, 64, shared two throwback photos of her and Gilbert, 61, to Instagram and Facebook with a loving caption. “Right now, I am sending my dear childhood friend love… Love… LOVE. Then more LOVE,” the actress wrote.
McDonough is best known for her long-running role as Erin Walton on “The Waltons,” which aired on CBS during the same era that “Little House” ran on NBC in the 1970s and early ’80s.
McDonough’s post was shared nearly a week after Gilbert’s husband turned himself in to the Albuquerque Police Department amid a warrant for his arrest. The acclaimed actor and producer is facing charges of sexual abuse of a minor that he directed on the TV series “The Cleaning Lady,” according to court documents obtained by KOAT. In a video message posted by TMZ, Busfield denied the allegations. Gilbert continues to stand by her husband as he faces the legal battle to clear his name.
Fans Reacted to Mary McDonough’s Sweet Message to Melissa Gilbert
Fans responded in the comments section after seeing McDonough’s post about Gilbert. Many also sent love and grace to the beloved actress.
“The world needs more of this, Mary,” one fan wrote.
“When our friends hurt, we hurt. 😢,” another wrote
“Friendship is love … without condition,” a third fan agreed.
“When you see Melissa give her one big hug from all of us. We’re praying for her. We’re praying for everyone,” another commenter wrote to McDonough.
McDonough is not the only former childhood star to publicly support Gilbert. “One Day at a Time” alum Glenn Scarpelli also posted a message of love for his friend during her difficult time.
Mary McDonough Is Friends With Several ‘Little House’ Stars
GettyMcDonough knows Gilbert and several other co-stars from “Little House on the Prairie.” In an interview with Chicago Pride.com, she confirmed friendships with Gilbert and Alison Arngrim, who played Nellie Olsen on the NBC series.
“The Waltons” actress also appeared in the 1981 TVB movie “Midnight Offerings,” with Gilbert’s “Little House” sister, Melissa Sue Anderson.
“We were about three years before ‘Little House,’” McDonough said while comparing the two shows. “At the time, there were no family shows like it. ‘The Waltons’ kind of paved the way for others to come on the air. We were a large family living in the depression and ‘Little House’ was a small family living on a prairie. There are some similarities. They both have morals and lessons that they teach in their storylines. Having three generations living under the same roof is a little bit different. Their storekeeper had a kooky wife and so did ours. We both have similar fan bases also.”
