Timothy Busfield: Bio, Age, Movies, TV Shows & More

When people talk about American television and film, the name Timothy Busfield often comes up. He has worked for decades as an actor, director, and producer. Many remember him as Elliot Weston in Thirtysomething, Danny Concannon in The West Wing, or Mark in the classic film Field of Dreams. But Busfield’s story goes far beyond these roles. He is a creator, a mentor, and a passionate storyteller who continues to influence Hollywood today.

This article takes a deep dive into his life, career, and lasting impact. We will keep things simple, clear, and easy to read so that anyone who wants to know more about Timothy Busfield will find everything in one place.

Early Life and Background

Busfield was born on June 12, 1957, in Lansing, Michigan, USA. His parents, Roger and Jean Busfield, raised him with strong family values. Growing up in the Midwest gave him a grounded perspective, something that later shaped his approach to acting.

He also comes from a creative family. His siblings, Buck, Julia, and Terry, all share artistic and professional talents. This environment helped Timothy Busfield develop an early interest in storytelling and performance.

Age and Personal Life

As of 2025, Busfield is 68 years old. He has lived a life full of professional success and personal challenges. Busfield has been married three times: first to actress Radha Delamarter, then to Jenny Merwin, and since 2013 to actress Melissa Gilbert, best known for her role in Little House on the Prairie.

The marriage to Melissa Gilbert is a true Hollywood love story. They met later in life, and together they created a partnership that blends family, creativity, and shared passion for the arts. Busfield is also a proud father of three children: Samuel, Daisy, and Wilson Busfield.

Physical Appearance

Fans often ask about Busfield’s height and looks. He stands at 1.77 meters (5 ft 10 in). With his red hair and friendly yet intense expressions, Timothy Busfield has always brought a unique presence to his roles. His look has often helped him play characters that are relatable, warm, and sometimes quietly complex.

Acting Career: Big Breaks and Major Roles

Thirtysomething (1987–1991)

One of Timothy Busfield’s defining roles came in the TV drama thirtysomething. He played Elliot Weston, a man struggling to balance marriage, fatherhood, and career pressures. The role made him a household name and earned him recognition as an actor who could capture real human emotions.

Field of Dreams (1989)

In Field of Dreams, Busfield played Mark, the skeptical brother-in-law of Kevin Costner’s Ray Kinsella. The film became an American classic, and Busfield’s role stood out as both frustrating and necessary. His performance gave depth to the film’s theme of belief versus doubt.

The West Wing (1996–2005)

Another highlight of Busfield’s career was his role as Danny Concannon, a White House reporter, in The West Wing. His character brought charm and romance to the political drama, particularly in his relationship with press secretary C.J. Cregg (played by Allison Janney). Fans loved his mix of humor, intelligence, and warmth.

Other TV and Film Work

Beyond these major roles, Busfield has appeared in dozens of TV shows and films. Some of his work includes:

• Revenge of the Nerds (1984)

• Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (2006–2007)

• Sleepy Hollow (2013–2017)

He has also guest-starred in popular series like Law & Order: SVU, Blue Bloods, and Designated Survivor.

Busfield as a Director and Producer

While most fans know him as an actor, Timothy Busfield has also built a strong career behind the camera. He has directed episodes of hit shows such as:

• The West Wing

• thirtysomething

• Without a Trace

• This Is Us

His work as a director shows his ability to tell stories visually, with a strong focus on characters and emotions. This transition from acting to directing demonstrates his wide range of skills and his passion for creating meaningful television.

Awards and Achievements

Busfield has received several awards and nominations throughout his career. He won an Emmy Award in 1991 for his role in Thirtysomething. This recognition confirmed his talent and solidified his place in Hollywood.

But his biggest achievement might not be awards. Instead, it is his long-lasting relevance. Few actors manage to stay active in both acting and directing across decades. Busfield has done just that and continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Timothy Busfield and Melissa Gilbert: A Creative Duo

Together with Melissa Gilbert, Busfield has built a life centered around storytelling. They split their time between Hollywood projects and local theater productions. Both are committed to keeping the arts alive in smaller communities, not just in big cities.

This dedication shows that Busfield values more than fame. He values connection, creativity, and giving back to others.

Why Busfield Still Matters Today

In a world where celebrity careers come and go quickly, Timothy Busfield stands out. He represents consistency, authenticity, and growth. Fans love him because he plays characters who feel real. Critics respect him because he brings depth to every project. And young actors admire him for his ability to balance acting, directing, and family life.

His story is not just about Hollywood success. It is about hard work, second chances, and staying true to who you are. That is why Busfield remains important, even decades after his first big break.

Fun Facts About Timothy Busfield

• He is not only an actor but also a passionate teacher of acting.

• He has worked in both television and film for more than 40 years.

• He enjoys working in theater as much as he does in Hollywood.

• His marriage to Melissa Gilbert was a surprise wedding in 2013, held at a small theater in California.

Conclusion

Timothy Busfield is more than a familiar face on TV and film. He is an Emmy-winning actor, a skilled director, and a storyteller who continues to inspire audiences. From Thirtysomething to The West Wing, from Field of Dreams to his directing projects, Busfield has left a mark that will last for decades.

Whether you admire him for his acting, his directing, or his partnership with Melissa Gilbert, one thing is clear: Busfield has built a career defined by passion, dedication, and authenticity.

Fans often share heartfelt tributes to their favorite stars. Recently, Pakistani fans mourned Jaswinder Singh Bhalla with emotional messages.