Michael Boxleitner is an American family member primarily known for being the son of television stars Melissa Gilbert and Bruce Boxleitner. Born on October 6, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, Michael has maintained a relatively private life despite his famous parentage.
| Full Name | Michael Garrett Boxleitner |
|---|---|
| Birthday | October 6, 1995 |
| Age | 29 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Sign | Libra |
| Birth Place | Los Angeles, California |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Family Member |
| Net Worth | $200,000 (estimated as of 2025) |
| Relationship Status | Private |
| Height | 5’10" (estimated) |
| Parents | Melissa Gilbert and Bruce Boxleitner |
Early Life & Background
Michael Garrett Boxleitner was born on October 6, 1995, in Los Angeles, California. He comes from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. As the son of Little House on the Prairie star Melissa Gilbert and actor Bruce Boxleitner, Michael was born into Hollywood royalty. His middle name “Garrett” was chosen as a tribute to Michael Landon, who was Melissa Gilbert’s mentor and on-screen father.
Growing up in Los Angeles, Michael experienced a childhood that balanced celebrity influence with attempts at normalcy. Despite his parents’ fame, they worked to provide him with a grounded upbringing. After completing his high school education, Michael attended Lansing Community College in Michigan, showing an interest in pursuing higher education outside the entertainment spotlight.
Career Journey
Unlike his famous parents, Michael has chosen to maintain a lower profile professionally. He hasn’t actively pursued a career in acting or entertainment, preferring to establish his own path away from Hollywood’s spotlight. This decision reflects his apparent desire for privacy and independence from his family’s acting legacy.
While specific career details remain private, Michael has occasionally appeared at public events with his family. His professional endeavors appear to be deliberately kept out of the public eye, allowing him to develop his own identity separate from his parents’ fame.
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Personal Life
Michael comes from a blended family. His mother, Melissa Gilbert, was previously married to Bo Brinkman, with whom she had a son named Dakota. When Melissa married Bruce Boxleitner in 1995, Michael became part of an extended family that included Bruce’s two sons from previous relationships, Sam and Lee.
His parents divorced in 2011 after 16 years of marriage. Following the divorce, Michael has maintained relationships with both parents. His family connections extend to his aunt, Sara Gilbert, known for her roles in Roseanne and as a co-host on The Talk.
Michael has largely kept his romantic relationships private, with little public information available about his dating life or current relationship status. This privacy aligns with his general approach to life outside the public eye.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Michael Boxleitner’s estimated net worth is approximately $200,000. While not officially confirmed, this estimate reflects his status separate from his parents’ wealth. Unlike his parents who accumulated their wealth through decades in entertainment, Michael’s financial status appears to be developing independently.
Without a high-profile career in entertainment or business, Michael’s income sources remain private, though they likely stem from personal career choices outside of Hollywood.
Physical Appearance
Michael Boxleitner stands at an estimated height of 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm). He bears some resemblance to both his parents, with features that reflect his mixed heritage. With brown hair and an athletic build, Michael maintains a casual, understated appearance in his rare public appearances.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Michael has been involved with charitable causes, notably supporting The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- He shares a family connection with Linda Perry through his aunt Sara Gilbert, who was married to the musician and producer
- Despite his Hollywood heritage, Michael maintains a minimal social media presence
- He was named in honor of Michael Landon, who played Charles Ingalls alongside his mother in Little House on the Prairie
- Michael was born in the same year his parents got married (1995)
Controversies
Michael has successfully avoided public controversies throughout his life. Unlike many celebrity children, he has maintained a clean public image without scandals or legal issues. This absence of controversy aligns with his private nature and deliberate distance from Hollywood’s spotlight.
Legacy & Impact
While still young at 29, Michael’s legacy currently rests on his choice to forge his own path despite his famous lineage. Rather than leveraging his family name for quick fame, he represents a more grounded approach to life as a celebrity child.
FAQ About Michael Boxleitner
What is Michael Boxleitner famous for? Michael Boxleitner is primarily known as the son of actress Melissa Gilbert (from Little House on the Prairie) and actor Bruce Boxleitner (from Babylon 5 and Tron).
Does Michael Boxleitner act like his parents? Unlike his famous parents, Michael has not pursued a career in acting and has chosen to maintain a private life away from the entertainment industry.
Who are Michael Boxleitner’s siblings? Michael has a half-brother named Dakota from his mother’s previous marriage to Bo Brinkman, and two step-brothers, Sam and Lee, from his father’s previous relationships.
Is Michael Boxleitner active on social media? Michael maintains a very limited social media presence, preferring to keep his personal life private despite his family’s fame.
What is Michael Boxleitner’s relationship with his parents today? While details are private, Michael appears to maintain good relationships with both Melissa Gilbert and Bruce Boxleitner despite their divorce in 2011.