Amazon MGM Drops Timothy Busfield After Abuse Allegations
A well-known actor faces removal from a major film project and a pulled TV episode after serious accusations surface. The unfolding events have sent shockwaves through the entertainment world.
Timothy Busfield, a familiar face to many, has found himself at the centre of a storm after allegations of child sexual abuse led to his removal from a forthcoming Amazon MGM production. The 68-year-old, who was set to appear in You Deserve Each Other alongside Penn Badgley, Meghann Fahy, and Kyle MacLachlan, will no longer feature in the film, which is expected to be released in 2026.
Busfield’s troubles did not end there. An episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit in which he appeared, originally scheduled for broadcast on 22 January, has also been quietly withdrawn from the line-up. The decision followed the issuing of an arrest warrant and a subsequent manhunt that concluded with Busfield surrendering to police in Albuquerque after several days on the run.
Allegations and Investigation
The charges against Busfield are grave: two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and an additional count of child abuse. The accusations stem from his alleged behaviour on the set of the Fox crime drama The Cleaning Lady, where he worked as a director. The investigation began in November 2024, when staff at the University of New Mexico Hospital raised concerns with authorities, suspecting that children were being groomed during the production.
According to police, Busfield is accused of sexually abusing two boys, both now aged 11, whom he reportedly met through his work on the show. The arrest warrant was issued on 9 January, prompting a search that ended with his voluntary surrender.
Industry Fallout
The entertainment industry has responded swiftly. Amazon MGM’s decision to excise Busfield from You Deserve Each Other was followed by the abrupt removal of his television appearance. The developments have left many in the business reeling, as the allegations continue to reverberate.
Busfield, best known for his roles in The West Wing and other acclaimed series, has publicly denied all accusations. In a video statement, he addressed the situation directly, saying,
“I got the call Friday night, I had to get a lawyer. Saturday I got in the car, drove 2,000 miles to Albuquerque. I’m gonna confront these lies. They’re horrible.”
He went on,
“They’re all lies and I did not do anything to those little boys and I’m gonna fight it. I’m gonna fight it with a great team, and I’m gonna be exonerated, I know I am, because this is all so wrong and all lies.”
Support and Resources
For those seeking advice or support regarding sexual harassment, assault, or abuse, resources are available. In the UK, the Rape Crisis charity offers information and assistance. In the United States, RAINN provides help and guidance for those affected by such issues.