He possesses that unforgettable countenance that you’ve likely admired on the silver screen for the past four decades. Making his film debut in The Outsiders (1983) at just 19 years old, Rob Lowe has since starred in beloved movies such as St. Elmo’s Fire (1985), Wayne’s World (1992), Tommy Boy(1995), and Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999). Additionally, he has showcased his talent in acclaimed television series like The West Wing (1999-2006), Brothers and Sisters (2006-2011), Parks and Recreation (2009-2015), and 9-1-1: Lone Star (2020-).
Recently, at the age of 59, Lowe has broadened his horizons in the entertainment industry. He now serves as the host and producer of the TV game show The Floor (2024-) and continues to run his own podcast, Literally! with Rob Lowe. Were these latest ventures of his a result of his pursuit or were they opportunities that came knocking at his door?
“It’s a bit of both,” Lowe explained. “The Floor was presented to me by my colleagues at FOX, with whom I collaborate on Lone Star. We are always exploring new ventures together—I’ve even sold them another game show since then. As for the podcast, that was my brainchild. Over time, I’ve co-hosted shows like The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Good Morning America. I’ve also done impromptu reporting for Oprah during past California wildfires, and I discovered how much I enjoy interviewing people. It’s been a delightful experience for me, and the fact that I can now do it as part of my job is incredibly rewarding.”
With the Oscars week in full swing, Lowe has been actively participating in this year’s awards season festivities. Recently, he was seen at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, showing support for his friends from Oppenheimer, Robert Downey Jr., and Cillian Murphy.
During a recent event at the festival, Lowe, along with Murphy and Downey Jr., posed with the Maltin Modern Master Award. Reflecting on the occasion, Lowe expressed, “It’s always gratifying to see your friends being recognized. The challenge arises when you have numerous friends in the running. Whom do you root for? It’s been a fantastic year, especially for talents like Bradley Cooper in Maestro, Downey in Oppenheimer, and Cillian. It’s truly been a standout year, particularly for individuals I’ve shared enduring relationships with.”
As the anticipation builds for Oscar Sunday, Lowe contemplates whether he’ll approach the evening with more caution, especially after a recent incident where he mistakenly congratulated Cooper on a Golden Globe win, thinking he was texting Downey Jr.
Recalling the humorous mix-up and sharing his predictions for the upcoming Oscars, Lowe exclaimed, “Oh my goodness! I mean, can you believe it? It was such a hilarious moment. I don’t want to jinx anyone, but I sense that certain categories this year are pretty much set, though surprises are always in store.”
Despite receiving accolades from prestigious award ceremonies like the Golden Globes, the Emmys, the SAG Awards, and the People’s Choice Awards over the years, Lowe has yet to secure an Oscar nomination. Why is that the case?
Lowe mused, “I know, right! Part of the reason could be the extensive time I’ve dedicated to television, starting with West Wing. It’s amusing—I was convinced we had it in Behind The Candelabra (2013)._ We received nominations in every possible category, but since it was an HBO production, it wasn’t eligible for the Oscars. Nonetheless, I’m already planning my return to the Oscars stage.”
As the weekend approaches, Lowe is set to take center stage at an exclusive Oscars viewing party in Beverly Hills called “DIRECTV Streaming with the Stars hosted by Rob Lowe.” Looking ahead to his hosting responsibilities, Lowe shared, “I’ll be welcoming guests, delivering a few remarks, highlighting my partnership with DIRECTV, whom I greatly admire due to our successful collaboration in the past. I’m excited to savor the evening, enjoy the show, and relish some delectable cuisine at Spago.”
Kelly Jo Sands, DIRECTV’s senior vice president of marketing, expressed enthusiasm about Lowe’s involvement in the Oscars event, stating, “As DIRECTV approaches its 30th anniversary later this year, we aim to emphasize our immersive home entertainment offerings, whether with or without a satellite. We have several strategies in place to reinforce this message, and we believe that hosting a party celebrating Hollywood’s grandest night is a fantastic kickoff, especially as it allows us to reconnect with our friend Rob Lowe.”
Just a week following the Oscars, Lowe will commemorate a significant milestone as he turns 60 on March 17.
Looking ahead to his upcoming birthday celebration, Lowe shared, “Initially, I was a bit apprehensive about turning 60, but now I’m genuinely looking forward to it. Not everyone gets to reach 60, and I’ve never felt better, stronger, or healthier—be it spiritually, mentally, or in my relationships. I’m ready for it! Let’s keep the momentum going.”
Lowe mentioned that his wife, Sheryl Berkoff, and their close circle of friends are organizing an extravagant bash for his 60th birthday. The event will feature an array of his favorite foods and a lively karaoke band. When asked about his chosen karaoke song for the night, Lowe revealed, “I’ll kick off the party with ‘Cracklin’ Rosie’ by Neil Diamond.”
Reflecting on what aspects of his life and career continue to bring him immense joy and fulfillment, Lowe emphasized, “Above all, after four decades in the industry, I’m still here, actively engaged, and operating at a high level. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work across various platforms and genres, encompassing both comedy and drama. I recognize how rare this is, and I’m truly appreciative of it. I feel like I’m just getting started—I’m as enthusiastic and driven as I was in my twenties.”
In a unique twist, Lowe shares the screen with his real-life 29-year-old son, John Owen Lowe, in the scripted Netflix series Unstable, which has already completed filming for its second season. When asked about the advice he imparts to his son as he navigates Hollywood—a piece of advice he wishes he had received during his early acting days—Lowe humorously remarked, “Where do I begin? There are days when I look at that young man and wonder, ‘Where was this advice for me?’ I pretty much winged it back then, likely making a fair share of missteps. I now offer him insights that only come with 40 years in the business. Like all parents dispensing advice to their children, you’re never quite sure how much they truly absorb.”
As Lowe embarks on a new decade, he notices a shift in his mindset and priorities concerning his professional aspirations.
“I’m increasingly drawn to building businesses that leverage the relationships I’ve cultivated in finance, politics, entertainment, and government. I aim to run these ventures concurrently with my ongoing commitments. I believe it’s the right time, and presently, about 80% of my focus is directed towards this realm,” Lowe shared. “Venturing into the world of finance and business has been enlightening—I’m learning a great deal, and there’s a wealth of exciting opportunities on the horizon.”
Concluding the discussion, Lowe was asked to reflect on his extensive career and offer advice to his younger self during his early years as part of the “Brat Pack” in the 1980s, considering all that he has achieved and experienced thus far.
“Easy on the hair gel,” Lowe quipped. “That would be the first piece of advice. Following that, I’d say that everything will unfold as it’s meant to. Work diligently, stay focused, have fun—just not too much fun—and everything will fall into place.”