Melissa Gilbert Second Husband: Who is Bruce Boxleitner?

While Melissa Gilbert is famously remembered for her heartwarming portrayal of Laura Ingalls on “Little House on the Prairie,” her personal life has also been in the limelight over the years. One significant chapter in her life story revolves around her second husband, Bruce Boxleitner. Let’s dive deeper into who Bruce Boxleitner is and his relationship with Melissa Gilbert.

Bruce Boxleitner: Beyond the Name

Born on May 12, 1950, in Elgin, Illinois, Bruce William Boxleitner embarked on a career that would span across acting, writing, and producing. He has become a recognizable figure in both television and films, with a career that spans several decades.

Career Highlights

Bruce’s notable roles include Captain John Sheridan on “Babylon 5” and Lee Stetson on “Scarecrow and Mrs. King.” His commanding presence and acting prowess have made him a staple in many science fiction and action-adventure series. Furthermore, Bruce also delved into the realm of science fiction writing, co-authoring a series of novels.

Romance with Melissa Gilbert

Melissa Gilbert and Bruce Boxleitner’s relationship timeline is a testament to the saying, “Love will find a way.” They first met in the late ’80s and dated on-and-off before finally tying the knot on January 1, 1995. Their relationship, often regarded as a mature and understanding bond, stood in contrast to the challenges Gilbert faced in her previous marriage.

Shared Joy of Parenthood

Together, Melissa and Bruce welcomed their son, Michael Boxleitner, named in honor of Melissa’s “Little House on the Prairie” co-star and mentor, Michael Landon. Michael joined a blended family, with siblings Dakota Brinkman (from Gilbert’s previous marriage) and Sam and Lee Boxleitner (from Bruce’s previous marriage).

End of a Chapter

Though their marriage seemed harmonious, over time, cracks began to show. In 2011, after 16 years of marriage, Melissa Gilbert filed for divorce, which was finalized in 2011. Both parties cited irreconcilable differences as the reason for their split.

Life Post-Divorce

Following their separation, both Bruce and Melissa embarked on new chapters in their personal lives. While Melissa found love again and married Timothy Busfield, Bruce also moved on, marrying Verena King in 2016.