Melissa Ellen Gilbert (born May 8, 1964) is an American actress, director, producer, and former president of the Screen Actors Guild. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on the classic NBC series Little House on the Prairie (1974–1983). Throughout her career, she has appeared in numerous television films, stage productions, and reality TV shows, including Dancing with the Stars. Beyond acting, Gilbert has been involved in politics, writing, and advocacy.
Early Life
Born to a newly engaged couple, Kathy Wood and David Darlington, Melissa was placed for adoption immediately after birth. The following day, she was adopted by actor and comedian Paul Gilbert and his wife, dancer and actress Barbara Crane, the daughter of “The Honeymooners” creator Harry Crane. The Gilberts later adopted a son, Jonathan, who co-starred with Melissa on “Little House on the Prairie.” When Melissa was six years old, her parents divorced. Her mother subsequently married attorney Harold Abeles, and together they had a daughter, Sara Rebecca Abeles, known professionally as Sara Gilbert. Tragically, in 1976, Paul Gilbert passed away. Although Melissa was told he had suffered a stroke, she later discovered that he had taken his own life due to chronic pain. These early experiences profoundly influenced her personal and professional life.
Education
Details about Melissa Gilbert’s formal education are limited. Growing up in Los Angeles and entering the entertainment industry at a young age meant that much of her learning came from on-set tutors and practical experiences in acting. Her early immersion in the industry provided her with a unique education, blending traditional academics with the demands and disciplines of a professional acting career.
Personal Life and Family
Melissa Gilbert’s personal life has been a tapestry of relationships, challenges, and growth. She has been married three times. Her first marriage was to actor Bo Brinkman in 1988, with whom she had a son named Dakota. The couple divorced in 1992. In 1995, she married actor Bruce Boxleitner, and they welcomed a son named Michael, named in honor of her late co-star Michael Landon. This marriage ended in divorce in 2011. In 2013, Gilbert married actor Timothy Busfield, and the couple resides in the Catskill Mountains in New York. In her memoir “Prairie Tale,” Gilbert candidly discusses her struggles with alcoholism, the pressures of fame, and her journey toward self-acceptance. These personal challenges and triumphs have shaped her into the resilient individual she is today.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Melissa Ellen Gilbert |
| Date of Birth | May 8, 1964 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Height | 5′ 3″ (1.60 m) |
| Parents | Paul Gilbert (adoptive father), Barbara Crane (adoptive mother) |
| Siblings | Jonathan Gilbert (brother), Sara Gilbert (half-sister) |
| Spouses | Bo Brinkman (1988–1994), Bruce Boxleitner (1995–2011), Timothy Busfield (2013–present) |
| Children | Dakota Brinkman, Michael Boxleitner |
| Net Worth | Approximately $500,000 as of 2025 |
Career
Melissa Gilbert’s career is marked by a series of significant roles and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Little House on the Prairie
Gilbert’s portrayal of Laura Ingalls Wilder on “Little House on the Prairie” remains her most iconic role. She was selected from over 500 child actresses for the part. The series was a massive success, and Gilbert’s performance endeared her to audiences nationwide. During its run, she also appeared in several television films, including “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “The Miracle Worker,” showcasing her range as a young actress.
Post-Little House Endeavors
After the conclusion of “Little House,” Gilbert continued to work in television, starring in biopics like “Choices of the Heart” and providing the voice of Batgirl in “Batman: The Animated Series.” In 2001, she was elected president of the Screen Actors Guild, serving until 2005. Her tenure was marked by efforts to address issues facing actors in the rapidly changing entertainment landscape.
Theater and Writing
In 2008, Gilbert took to the stage, playing Caroline “Ma” Ingalls in the musical adaptation of “Little House on the Prairie.” The production toured nationally, introducing her to a new generation of fans. She has also authored several books, including her memoir “Prairie Tale,” the children’s book “Daisy and Josephine,” and “My Prairie Cookbook,” which combines recipes with personal anecdotes.
Recent Projects
In 2022, Gilbert released another memoir, “Back to the Prairie,” chronicling her journey from Hollywood to a simpler life in the Catskills during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also launched “Modern Prairie,” a lifestyle brand aimed at empowering women through various stages of life. These endeavors reflect her evolving interests and commitment to personal growth.
Recent Movies and TV Projects of Melissa Gilbert
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | When We Last Spoke | Ruby | Feature film |
| 2019 | Guest Artist | Producer | Feature film |
| 2018 | Hometown Christmas | Mary Russell | Television movie |
| 2017 | Tenure | Tilly Masters | Television movie |
| 2015 | Secrets and Lies | Lisa Daly | Television series; appeared in 5 episodes |
| 2015 | The Night Shift | Lindsay | Television series; appeared in the episode “Hold On” |
| 2011 | The Christmas Pageant | Vera Parks | Television movie |
Latest News
As of February 2025, Melissa Gilbert made a guest appearance on the Hallmark series “When Calls the Heart.” Her debut episode aired on Saturday, February 8, 2025, where she portrayed Inspector Georgie McGill, a forensic specialist with a history with Bill Avery (Jack Wagner). This role marks Gilbert’s return to television and has been well-received by fans.
Physical Appearance
Melissa Gilbert stands at 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 meters) tall. Throughout her career, she has maintained a graceful and approachable demeanor, with her expressive eyes and warm smile becoming her trademarks. Her appearance has evolved over the years, reflecting her journey from a child star to a seasoned actress and public figure.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @melissagilbertofficial | Instagram Profile |
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Melissa Gilbert’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000. This valuation reflects her earnings from a long-standing career in acting, directing, and producing. Despite facing financial challenges, including tax issues and the costs associated with personal events, Gilbert has continued to work in the industry and engage in various projects.
