Melissa Gilbert recently opened up about her tumultuous six-year relationship with actor Rob Lowe, reflecting on the challenges and lessons learned during their time together. In a candid interview on Jennie Garth’s “I Choose Me” podcast, Gilbert described her younger self as “such a baby” when she and Lowe began dating at the age of 17 in 1981, while she was still starring as Laura Ingalls Wilder on “Little House on the Prairie.”
The relationship, which lasted until 1987, was characterized by significant ups and downs. Gilbert, who was already an established child star, watched as Lowe’s career skyrocketed. “I was able to, sort of, sit back and watch this meteoric rise happen,” she recalled, noting that she wasn’t fully prepared for the fame and the intense fandom that came with it. She admitted that it was difficult to cope with the attention Lowe received from fans, stating, “It was like I didn’t exist.”
Despite the challenges, Gilbert emphasized that their relationship was not without joyful moments. She reflected on the valuable life lessons she took away from her time with Lowe, noting that it helped shape her understanding of what she desires in relationships. “I feel like I was all, like my shoulders were always up by my ears,” she said, acknowledging the anxiety that accompanied her younger years.
After parting ways with Lowe, Gilbert went on to marry Bo Brinkman from 1988 to 1994 and then Bruce Boxleitner from 1995 to 2011. In 2013, she found love again with Timothy Busfield, confirming their engagement and marrying shortly after.
Gilbert’s journey is a testament to resilience and personal growth, showcasing how experiences—both good and bad—can lead to a more fulfilling and easeful life.