Melissa Gilbert, known for her role as Laura Ingalls on “Little House on the Prairie,” has embraced her role as a mother and stepmother to a blended family. She refers to her children, both biological and step, as her own and often shares tributes to them on social media.

In 2020, she posted a tribute to her sons, calling them the “four chambers of her heart.” She expressed her love for them and appreciation for their talents and personalities. Gilbert’s journey into motherhood began in 1989 when she had her first child, Dakota, with her first husband, Bo Brinkman. Dakota, like his parents, pursued acting, and Gilbert supported him in his career.

After her first marriage ended, Gilbert married Bruce Boxleitner and had a son, Michael, in 1995. She also became a stepmother to Boxleitner’s children from his previous marriage. Despite divorcing Boxleitner in 2011, Gilbert remains close to her stepchildren.

In 2013, Gilbert married Timothy Busfield, adding his three children from previous relationships to her family. In June 2021, she became a grandmother to Dakota’s daughter, Ripley, whom she adores. Through marriages and blended families, Gilbert has found joy in motherhood and grandparenthood, cherishing every moment with her loved ones.