Hallmark star Melissa Gilbert made a public appearance in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Tuesday, January 20, to show support of her husband, actor and director Timothy Busfield.
The former “Little House on the Prairie” actress was photographed attending the pretrial hearing for her husband, as he faces charges related to sex abuse.
The images were obtained by The Daily Mail.
Gilbert had her hair down as she wore a paisley dress with a burgundy-colored velvet blazer. She finished the look with tan boots.
Gilbert Penned a Heartfelt Letter About Her Husband
Gilbert’s appearance comes after she submitted an emotional letter to the judge in support of Busfield.
In the personal message, she asked the court to ensure Busfield’s safety while he remains in custody.
In the letter, Gilbert described her husband as a man of deep integrity and compassion. “Tim has the strongest moral compass of any human I have ever known,” she wrote, highlighting the values she believes define him.
She also stressed his commitment to service and kindness, noting that he begins “every day with kindness and compassion.”
Gilbert’s plea was deeply personal, acknowledging how much Busfield means to her.
“Please, please take care of my sweet husband,” she added. “As he is my protector, I am his, but I cannot protect him now and I think that, more than anything else, is what is truly breaking my heart, I am relying on you to protect him for me.”
She also spoke to the supportive role Busfield has played in her son’s life, writing that he “nurtured and guided Michael” — her youngest child — and expressing profound gratitude for the positive influence he has had on her family.
Gilbert’s letter was among dozens of character references submitted on Busfield’s behalf, including those from family members and former co-stars.
While Busfield denies the allegations against him and vows to fight them in court, Gilbert’s message underscored a desire for compassion and care during this difficult period for their family.
The Two Have Been Together Since 2012
As Gilbert has praised her husband, the feeling between the two is mutual.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Busfield recalled the moment he met Gilbert at an empty bar that he used to frequent.
“There was one person sitting at the bar and she had a fedora on, and I couldn’t tell who it was, but I knew it was problematic,” he said.
He said the two ended up talking as that was all it took to realize that she was the one.
Well, that’s what the court is for…figuring out if the person on trial is in fact guilty or innocent.
We shall see…