A Cultural Shift — And Gilbert Calls for Responsibility in Public Speech
Gilbert also addressed Megyn Kelly directly, urging her to recognize the influence her words carry: “@megynkelly, you need to be careful with your words.” Her message echoed the sentiment shared by thousands: Words matter. How we talk about minors matters. How society perceives vulnerability matters.
Dean Butler Responds to the Age Gap With Honesty and Sensitivity
Dean Butler, the actor who played Almanzo Wilder, has long acknowledged the discomfort surrounding the on-screen romantic scenes between him — an adult in his early twenties — and Gilbert, a fifteen-year-old girl. Speaking to People, he openly shared: “There was anxiety on both sides of that kiss.”
He explained that historically, Laura and Almanzo had a ten-year age gap, but portraying that dynamic with a real teenage actor creates an emotional imbalance that is difficult to navigate. Butler said: “I’ve often said to Melissa, ‘I wish we could have been a little closer in age.’ But that’s not how it happened.” His remarks reflect a growing understanding — one that didn’t widely exist at the time — that even fictional roles can carry emotional implications for young performers.
Public Reaction: A Wave of Celebrity and Viewer Backlash
Megyn Kelly’s comments prompted shock and alarm from numerous public figures. Valerie Bertinelli She joined the movement, posting: “This picture was taken in 1975. I’m 15. I’m a child.” John Oliver. Speaking on Last Week Tonight, Oliver firmly rejected any attempt to rationalize predatory behavior, stating: “Please intervene if I ever start doing this kind of calculation.”
