Net Worth Ranker
What Is Timothy Busfield’s Net Worth?
Timothy Busfield, an accomplished American actor, director, producer, and writer, has accumulated a net worth of $500,000. This figure represents the combined net worth he shares with his wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, as of 2013.
Career Highlights and Earnings
Busfield’s extensive career in television and film has been the primary driver of his wealth. He gained initial recognition for his role as Dr. John ‘J.T.’ McIntyre on “Trapper John, M.D.” from 1984 to 1986. This role, though early in his career, provided a steady income and established him in the industry.
His portrayal of Elliot Weston on “Thirtysomething” (1987–1991) was a significant milestone, earning him a Primetime Emmy Award in 1991 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. This prestigious award undoubtedly boosted his earning potential and opened doors to higher-paying roles. Over four seasons, he appeared in 85 episodes, and his salary per episode likely increased as the show gained popularity.
Another notable role was as Danny Concannon on “The West Wing” (1999–2006), where he appeared in 28 episodes. While specific salary details for this role are not publicly available, it can be assumed that his compensation was substantial, given the show’s critical acclaim and popularity.
Busfield’s film career includes appearances in “Revenge of the Nerds” (1984), “Field of Dreams” (1989), “Sneakers” (1992), and “National Security” (2003). While his roles in these films varied in size, they contributed to his overall income. For instance, “Field of Dreams,” where he co-starred with Kevin Costner, was a box office success, grossing over $84 million worldwide. While his exact earnings from this film are not disclosed, it can be inferred that he received a percentage of the profits or a significant upfront payment.
In addition to acting, Busfield has also worked as a director and producer, further diversifying his income streams. He directed more than 50 projects, including episodes of “Ed” (2000–2004), “Without a Trace” (2002–2009), “Damages” (2007–2011), “Psych” (2012), “Childrens Hospital” (2013), “This Is Us” (2017), and “Nashville” (2017–2018). Directing fees for television episodes can range from $30,000 to $100,000 per episode, depending on the show’s budget and the director’s experience.
He also wrote, directed, and produced the award-winning 2015 short film “One Smart Fellow.” While the financial gains from short films are typically modest, the accolades and recognition he received likely enhanced his reputation and opened doors to other opportunities.
As a producer, Busfield has worked on “Ed,” “Without a Trace,” “Secrets and Lies,” and “Guest Artist,” as well as “Lipstick Jungle” (2008–2009) and “Mind Games” (2014). Producers typically receive a percentage of the overall profits of a film or television show, which can be a lucrative source of income.
Busfield’s stage career includes performances on Broadway in “Brighton Beach Memoirs” (1983) and “A Few Good Men” (1990). While Broadway salaries vary depending on the role and the show’s success, they can provide a significant income for actors. He also co-founded Sacramento’s B Street Theatre and the touring troupe Fantasy Theatre with his brother, Buck. These ventures likely generated income through ticket sales and donations.
Real Estate and Personal Investments
In 2003, Busfield purchased a 2,396 square foot home near Malibu for $1.25 million. This three-bedroom, three-bathroom property was put on the market for $1.995 million in late 2008 after his divorce from Jennifer Merwin. The sale of this property, though eventually leading to financial difficulties, initially represented a potential profit.
However, in 2010, reports surfaced that Busfield was facing foreclosure on the Malibu property due to defaulting on his mortgage. This financial setback likely impacted his overall net worth.
In 2019, Busfield and his wife, Melissa Gilbert, purchased a 14-acre property in New York’s Catskill Mountains for $98,000. This property, located approximately 20 minutes from Woodstock, serves as their primary residence. The relatively low purchase price suggests a more modest lifestyle compared to his earlier years in Malibu.
Beyond real estate, specific details of Busfield’s personal investments are not publicly available. However, given his long and successful career, it can be assumed that he has made investments in stocks, bonds, or other assets to secure his financial future. His involvement with Grand River Productions, the production company he launched with his wife and Jeff Daniels, represents a significant investment in his own creative endeavors.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Timothy Busfield was born on June 12, 1957, in Lansing, Michigan. His mother, Jean, worked as a secretary, and his father, Roger, was a drama professor. He grew up with sisters Julia and Terry and brother Buck, attending East Lansing High School. After graduating in 1975, Busfield enrolled at East Tennessee State University to study drama. During this time, he often traveled with the Actors Theater of Louisville, gaining invaluable experience and exposure to the professional theater world. At age 18, he appeared in his first professional theatrical production, a children’s adaptation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
In 1981, Busfield moved to New York City and soon appeared in a Circle Repertory Company production of Lanford Wilson’s “Talley and Son.” This early stage work provided him with valuable experience and helped him establish his reputation as a talented actor. The transition to Los Angeles in 1983 marked a turning point in his career, leading to his role as Mark Potter on the ABC series “Reggie.”
Awards and Recognition
Busfield’s Primetime Emmy Award for “Thirtysomething” in 1991 was a significant achievement that undoubtedly boosted his career and earning potential. The series also earned him two Q Award nominations (from the Viewers for Quality Television Awards) for Best Supporting Actor in a Quality Drama Series.
His work on “Guest Artist” also garnered numerous awards, including Best of Show – Feature Film at the Accolade Competition, Best Feature Film at the Beloit International Film Festival, Best Independent Film at the Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival, Best Director and Best Feature Film at the Myrtle Beach International Film Festival, Best Director at the New York City Independent Film Festival, Outstanding Feature Film at the Sacramento International Film Festival, and Best Feature Film at the SENE Film, Music and Art Festival. These accolades further solidified his reputation as a talented director and producer.
Similarly, “One Smart Fellow” earned him an Award of Excellence Special Mention at the Accolade Competition, a Best Short Film award at the Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival, a Best Family Narrative award at the Manhattan Film Festival, an Excellence Award at the Rincon International Film Festival, a Festival Prize for Best Film at the Sacramento International Film Festival, an Audience Award for Best Fiction Short at the Traverse City Film Festival, and Outstanding Arthouse, Best Ensemble Cast, and Outstanding Directing at the Zed Fest Film Festival. These awards highlight his versatility and skill as a filmmaker.
In 2018, he won an IndieFEST Film Award for Award of Excellence Special Mention – TV Pilot, a Jersey Shore Film Festival award for Best TV Pilot Drama, and a Manhattan Film Festival award for Best Comedic Drama Short for “Tenure,” which he wrote. This recognition demonstrates his continued success and creativity in the television industry.
Personal Life and Relationships
Timothy Busfield’s personal life has seen several transitions. He married actress/director Radha Delamarter in 1981, and they had a son, Wilson, before divorcing in 1986. He then married fashion designer Jennifer Merwin on September 11, 1988, and they had a daughter, Daisy, and a son, Samuel, before divorcing in 2008. These divorces likely involved financial settlements that impacted his net worth.
His marriage to actress Melissa Gilbert on April 24, 2013, marked a new chapter in his life. The couple lived in Howell, Michigan, until 2018, when they relocated to New York City. This move suggests a desire to be closer to the entertainment industry and potential career opportunities.
Busfield’s role as an artist in residence at Michigan State University during the 2016–17 academic year also provided him with a steady income and the opportunity to mentor aspiring actors. This experience reflects his commitment to education and his desire to give back to the community.
