Modern Prairie Cancels Melissa Gilbert Event Amid Timothy Busfield Abuse Case

Melissa Gilbert’s lifestyle brand, Modern Prairie, has canceled a planned virtual event featuring the actress as her husband, Timothy Busfield, faces serious criminal charges.

Gilbert, who co-founded Modern Prairie and serves as its “brand muse,” was scheduled to host an “Ask Melissa Anything” online Q&A on Friday. On Wednesday, the company informed subscribers by email that the event was canceled due to what it described as an “unexpected scheduling change.”

In the message, Modern Prairie said Gilbert would not be available and that the company was respecting her “need for privacy and space.” The brand added that it hopes to reschedule the event at a later date and thanked its community for their understanding and support.

The cancellation comes one day after Busfield surrendered to authorities in New Mexico. The actor and producer is facing three felony charges related to child sexual abuse. According to the arrest warrant, Busfield is accused of engaging in unlawful sexual conduct with 11-year-old twin boys who appeared on the Fox series The Cleaning Lady, a show on which he worked primarily as an executive producer.

Busfield has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. The warrant was issued on January 10, though investigators say the alleged abuse dates back to 2022. The twins’ mother reportedly told authorities that her sons were groomed by Busfield between fall 2022 and spring 2024. One of the children disclosed the alleged abuse to a counselor in September 2025, and a doctor at the University of New Mexico Hospital requested an investigation in November 2024, according to the warrant.

Busfield, known for his work on Thirtysomething and The West Wing, has publicly denied the allegations. In a video released Tuesday, he called the claims “all lies” and said he plans to fight the charges and clear his name.

Gilbert, best known for her role on Little House on the Prairie, addressed the situation through a representative for the first time this week. The statement said her focus is on supporting her family during a difficult time. It added that Gilbert stands by her husband and will speak publicly when appropriate, while asking for privacy.

Modern Prairie, which Gilbert founded in 2022 with business partner Nicole Haase, also issued a public statement to its followers. The company said it is aware of the allegations involving a family member of its brand muse but emphasized that the situation does not involve the business or its operations.

The brand stated that it condemns abuse in all forms and remains committed to safety, integrity, and respect. While acknowledging the seriousness of the situation, Modern Prairie said it is prioritizing compassion, privacy, and continued support for its community as the legal case unfolds.