Prominent Hollywood actor and director Timothy Busfield, renowned for his roles in ‘The West Wing’ and ‘Thirtysomething,’ has been formally charged with multiple counts of child sexual abuse following his surrender to Albuquerque authorities. The 68-year-old performer was taken into custody without bond at Bernalillo County jail on Tuesday after an arrest warrant was issued the previous day.
The allegations stem from incidents reportedly occurring during production of the Fox crime drama ‘The Cleaning Lady,’ where Busfield served as executive producer and director. According to court documents, twin boys aged 11 have accused the industry veteran of inappropriate physical contact over a two-year period beginning when they were seven years old. The criminal complaint indicates the alleged incidents took place on set during production pauses.
In a pre-surrender video statement, Busfield vehemently denied all accusations, characterizing them as ‘lies’ and expressing confidence in his eventual exoneration. ‘I did not do anything to those little boys,’ the actor declared in the 45-second recording.
The investigation affidavit reveals Busfield acknowledged occasional physical interaction with the children—such as tickling or lifting them—but maintained these actions were playful and occurred in the presence of others. The document also suggests potential motivation for false allegations, citing the mother’s alleged desire for revenge after her sons were reportedly replaced in the series’ final season.
Busfield’s professional credentials include his Emmy-winning performance as White House reporter Danny Concannon in ‘The West Wing’ and his role in the groundbreaking ensemble drama ‘Thirtysomething.’ He is married to actress Melissa Gilbert, former Screen Actors Guild president and ‘Little House on the Prairie’ star.
The case continues to develop as legal proceedings commence, with the entertainment industry closely monitoring one of its established figures facing serious criminal allegations.