Melissa Gilbert’s Early Life and Career
Melissa Gilbert was born on May 8, 1964, in Los Angeles, California. She is the daughter of actor Paul Gilbert and actress Barbara Crane. Gilbert began her acting career at the age of four, appearing in commercials and TV shows such as “Gunsmoke” and “Little House on the Prairie.” She gained widespread recognition for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder in the TV series “Little House on the Prairie,” which aired from 1974 to 1983.
After “Little House on the Prairie,” Gilbert continued to act in TV shows and movies, including “Sweet Justice,” “Batman: The Animated Series,” and “Secrets and Lies.” She also appeared on Broadway in the musicals “The Miracle Worker” and “Little House on the Prairie: The Musical.”
Melissa Gilbert’s Age and Illness
As of 2021, Melissa Gilbert is 57 years old. In 2012, she announced that she had been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy, a condition that causes temporary paralysis of the facial muscles. She has also undergone several surgeries, including a spinal fusion surgery in 2016 and a hip replacement surgery in 2019.
Despite her health challenges, Gilbert remains active in the entertainment industry and continues to advocate for various causes, including animal rights and education.
Melissa Gilbert’s Children
Melissa Gilbert has two children. She was married to actor Bo Brinkman from 1988 to 1992, and they have one son together, Dakota Brinkman. In 1995, Gilbert married actor Bruce Boxleitner, and they have one son together, Michael Boxleitner.
Gilbert has been open about her struggles with motherhood, including her decision to have a hysterectomy at the age of 26 due to endometriosis. She has also spoken out about her experience with postpartum depression after the birth of her second son.
Melissa Gilbert’s Wiki and Bio
Melissa Gilbert’s full name is Melissa Ellen Gilbert. She was born on May 8, 1964, in Los Angeles, California. Her parents are actor Paul Gilbert and actress Barbara Crane. Gilbert began her acting career at a young age, appearing in commercials and TV shows before gaining widespread recognition for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder in “Little House on the Prairie.”
Outside of acting, Gilbert is also a writer, producer, and director. She has written several books, including a memoir titled “Prairie Tale: A Memoir” and a children’s book series called “Daisy and Josephine.” She has also produced and directed various TV shows and movies.
Melissa Gilbert’s Twitter and Social Media Presence
Melissa Gilbert is active on social media, particularly on Twitter. Her Twitter handle is @MEGBusfield, which is a combination of her middle name (Ellen) and her married name (Busfield). On Twitter, Gilbert shares updates on her personal life, promotes her work, and advocates for various causes. She also interacts with her fans and followers.
Interesting Facts About Melissa Gilbert and Her Son
Melissa Gilbert was adopted
Although Melissa Gilbert is the daughter of actors Paul Gilbert and Barbara Crane, she was actually adopted by Crane’s second husband, actor and comedian Paul Gilbert. Gilbert did not learn about her adoption until she was eight years old.
Melissa Gilbert’s son has followed in her footsteps
Michael Boxleitner, Melissa Gilbert’s younger son, has also pursued a career in the entertainment industry. He has appeared in TV shows and movies such as “Fargo” and “The Gifted.”
Melissa Gilbert has a connection to the Kennedy family
Through her mother’s side of the family, Melissa Gilbert is related to the Kennedy family. Her maternal grandfather, Harry Crane, was a writer for “The Jackie Gleason Show” and was friends with President John F. Kennedy.
Melissa Gilbert is a breast cancer survivor
In 2012, Melissa Gilbert was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. She has since become an advocate for breast cancer awareness and encourages women to get regular mammograms.
Melissa Gilbert is a philanthropist
Throughout her career, Melissa Gilbert has been involved in various charitable causes. She has worked with organizations such as the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the American Red Cross, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
