Fri Feb 06 18:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Law & Order: SVU Recasts Role Following Child Abuse Allegations Against Timothy Busfield

The Story:
Actor David Zayas has replaced Timothy Busfield in an upcoming episode of “Law & Order: SVU” after Busfield was charged with child sexual abuse in New Mexico. NBC confirmed that Zayas, who previously appeared on the show in 2002, stepped into the guest role originally intended for Busfield in the episode titled “Corrosive.” The episode was initially scheduled to air on January 15, 2026, but was pulled following the allegations. Zayas has since filmed his parts, and the episode is now slated to air on February 6, 2026.

The charges against Busfield stem from allegations made by twin actors who claim he inappropriately touched them on the set of the Fox crime drama “The Cleaning Lady,” where he served as an executive producer. The allegations surfaced as early as November 2024, prompting an investigation. Busfield maintains his innocence and surrendered to police on January 13, 2026. In addition to the “SVU” recasting, Amazon MGM Studios plans to digitally remove Busfield from the upcoming romantic comedy “You Deserve Each Other.”

Key Points:

  • Timothy Busfield was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse.
  • David Zayas replaced Busfield in an upcoming episode of “Law & Order: SVU” titled “Corrosive”.
  • The episode “Corrosive,” initially set to air on January 15, 2026, was pulled and is now scheduled for February 6, 2026.
  • The allegations against Busfield involve twin actors from “The Cleaning Lady” who allege inappropriate touching between 2022 and 2024.
  • Melissa Gilbert, Busfield’s wife, publicly supports him.
  • Amazon MGM Studios will remove Busfield from the film “You Deserve Each Other.”
  • A warrant for Busfield’s arrest was issued on January 10, 2026

Key Takeaways:

  • The entertainment industry is reacting swiftly to allegations of child abuse.
  • Accusations, even without a conviction, can have immediate and significant professional consequences.
  • Studios are prioritizing the protection of their image and brand reputation.
  • Public support from family members, while expected, doesn’t negate the impact on the accused’s career.
  • The legal process will determine Busfield’s guilt or innocence, but the reputational damage has already been done.

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