Let me tell you the story of Melissa Gilbert, a name that became a household staple thanks to her iconic role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on the timeless classic, Little House on the Prairie. At just 10 years old, Melissa burst onto the scene in 1974, and for nine unforgettable seasons, she captured the hearts of millions. The show wrapped up its run in 1983, but Melissa’s journey didn’t stop there. Now, nearly five decades later, her life and career have taken some fascinating turns. So, how much is Melissa Gilbert worth these days? Let’s dive in and find out.
How Much Is Melissa Gilbert Worth Today?
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Melissa Gilbert’s estimated net worth is around $500,000. While that might not seem like a staggering amount compared to some of her Hollywood peers, it’s important to remember that Melissa’s career has always been about more than just the money. She’s an actress, a former president of the Screen Actors Guild, and now, a proud DIY farmer. Born and raised in California, Melissa has always been someone who wears her heart on her sleeve. In 2001, she took on one of the most prestigious roles in the entertainment industry when she became the President of the Screen Actors Guild, a position she held until 2005. It’s clear that Melissa has always been more focused on making an impact than on raking in the cash.
After Little House on the Prairie, Melissa continued to build her acting career, starring in a variety of made-for-TV films. Titles like Choices, The Penalty Phase, Forbidden Nights, and Family of Strangers kept her busy and showcased her versatility as an actress. In 1994, Melissa landed a main role on the NBC legal drama Sweet Justice, but unfortunately, the show only lasted one season. Melissa returned to her roots in 2009 when she portrayed Caroline “Ma” Ingalls in the Little House on the Prairie musical, which toured across the U.S. It was a full-circle moment for her, and fans loved seeing her back in the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
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In 2012, Melissa took a fun detour into the world of dancing when she competed on season 14 of Dancing With the Stars. Although she finished in fifth place, the experience was a memorable one for her. A few years later, she landed a recurring role on Secrets and Lies, but the series was canceled after two seasons. In 2021, Melissa joined the cast of “Marvel Wastelanders: Black Widow,” a scripted podcast directed by her husband, Timothy Busfield. It’s clear that Melissa’s career has been as diverse as it has been long-lasting.
Family Life: Melissa Gilbert and Timothy Busfield
Melissa and Timothy Busfield, also an actor, tied the knot in 2013. Together, they’ve created a beautiful blended family. Melissa is a mom to two children from her previous marriages: Dakota Brinkman and Michael Boxleitner. Timothy brings his own kids into the mix: Samuel Busfield, Daisy Busfield, and Wilson Busfield. Since getting married, Melissa and Timothy have welcomed the joy of becoming grandparents. It’s a life filled with love, laughter, and plenty of family moments.
Where Is Melissa Gilbert Now?
In her 2022 memoir, Back to the Prairie: A Home Remade, A Life Rediscovered, Melissa opens up about the decision she and Timothy made to leave the glitz and glamour of Hollywood behind. They traded it all for a quieter, more fulfilling life in upstate New York. The couple purchased a cottage in the Catskills and embraced their new roles as “DIY Farmers.” It’s a lifestyle that Melissa has always dreamed of, and much of her inspiration comes from her time on Little House on the Prairie.
“I aspire to be courageous in everything I do, and a lot of that is like Laura,” Melissa shared. “My time on Little House really influenced my desire to have this life that I have.” It’s clear that Melissa’s connection to her character, Laura Ingalls Wilder, runs deep, and it continues to shape the way she lives her life today.
