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Entertainment • Actor

Timothy Busfield

Timothy Busfield is an American actor and director known for his work in film and television.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Timothy Busfield is an American actor and director known for his work in film and television. He is best known for playing Elliot Weston on *Thirtysomething* and Danny Concannon on *The West Wing*, and he won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1991 for *Thirtysomething*.

Early life

Busfield was born in Lansing, Michigan, and his birth name is Timothy Clark Busfield. Sources identify him as American and note that he began his career in acting before becoming known on television and in film.

Acting career

Busfield is best known for roles in *Thirtysomething*, *The West Wing*, *Field of Dreams*, and the *Revenge of the Nerds* films. He has also had a long television career in recurring and guest roles across multiple series.

Awards and recognition

Busfield received a Primetime Emmy Award in 1991 for his supporting role in *Thirtysomething*. Available biographical sources also describe him as an Emmy-winning actor and director.

Personal life

Busfield has been married to actress Melissa Gilbert since 2013. Public biographical sources also list previous marriages.

Key facts

  • Busfield won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1991 for *Thirtysomething*.
  • He played Danny Concannon on *The West Wing*.
  • He played Elliot Weston on *Thirtysomething*.
  • He appeared in *Revenge of the Nerds* films.
  • He was born in Lansing, Michigan.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Timothy Busfield?
Timothy Busfield is an American actor and director known for film and television roles, especially on *Thirtysomething* and *The West Wing*.
What is Timothy Busfield best known for?
He is best known for playing Elliot Weston in *Thirtysomething* and Danny Concannon in *The West Wing*.
Did Timothy Busfield win an Emmy Award?
Yes. He won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1991 for *Thirtysomething*.
What movies has Timothy Busfield appeared in?
His notable film credits include *Revenge of the Nerds*, *Revenge of the Nerds II*, and *Field of Dreams*.
Is Timothy Busfield also a director?
Yes. In addition to acting, he has worked as a director in television.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timothy_Busfield
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, major roles, and Emmy Award win.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0124079/bio/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, occupation, and career overview.
  3. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/timothy-busfield/bio/3030173334/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, and professions.
  4. TMDb — https://www.themoviedb.org/person/23881-timothy-busfield?language=en-US
    Supports: Best-known roles and Emmy Award mention.