In Hollywood, Rob Lowe prioritizes his role as a husband and father above all else. His romantic journey with Sheryl Berkoff began while filming Bad Influence in 1990, leading to their marriage in 1991. The couple welcomed their first son, Matthew, in 1993, and their second son, John Owen, in 1995.
Reflecting on his evolution from a teenage heartthrob to a devoted family man, Lowe expressed no regrets. “I’m grateful for the life I’ve lived,” he told PEOPLE in 2022. “I was absolutely ready to coach Little League, carve pumpkins for Halloween, read bedtime stories, and serve hot lunches on Wednesdays. I cherished every moment.”
Rob Lowe and his eldest son, Matthew, share a strong bond, with Matthew following his own path in business after attending Duke and Loyola Marymount
John Owen, his younger son, is also making strides in the entertainment industry. Both father and son appear together in the Netflix comedy series Unstable, which debuted in March 2023, where John Owen serves as co-creator, co-executive producer, and co-writer.
In a June 2024 interview with PEOPLE, Lowe described the joy of fatherhood as a chance to relive his own childhood experiences. “You get to witness their sense of wonder and excitement,” he explained.
“As they transition into young adulthood, being part of decisions—like their first homes, relationships, and jobs—becomes even more meaningful. The stakes are considerably higher, and I’m grateful to offer my perspective.”
Here’s what to know about Rob Lowe’s sons.
Matthew Edward Lowe, 31
Born on September 24, 1993, Matthew is Lowe’s eldest son. Shortly after his birth, the family relocated two hours north of Los Angeles. “Parenting requires sacrifices,” Lowe remarked, noting their move to Santa Barbara, where he has lived for nearly 20 years. “My kids grew up away from the showbiz world, which helped them realize how vast the world is.”
After completing his education in Santa Barbara, Matthew attended Duke University before earning his law degree from Loyola Marymount Law School in Los Angeles in 2019. He currently serves as vice president of business development at Miroma Ventures, a venture capital firm, and is also the founder of LH Capital, which manages investments for the Lowe and Hermes families.
Despite his accomplishments, Matthew still seeks guidance from his father. “Dad offers great relationship advice,” he shared with PEOPLE in 2022, recounting Lowe’s words about recognizing true love. “He married his best friend, and I aspire to have a similar long-lasting marriage.”
In 2017, the three Lowes collaborated on The Lowe Files, a docuseries exploring purportedly supernatural locations. Matthew expressed to PEOPLE how the experience felt like a memorable trip, even with cameras capturing their adventures.
On Matthew’s 29th birthday in September 2022, Lowe shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, praising his son’s qualities. “Happy Birthday to one of the best young men I know—smart, funny, dedicated, kind, adventurous, and hardworking. I’m proud to be your father. Love you so much, Matthew!” Matthew’s simple response was, “Love you so much.”
John Owen Lowe, 28
John Owen, the younger of the two, was born on November 6, 1995.
“My boys are my greatest achievement,” Lowe stated in a 2018 interview with PEOPLE, giving much of the credit to his wife, Sheryl, for being an incredible partner.
He attended Stanford University, where he didn’t wait until graduation to begin on his career. He appeared in Lowe’s Fox sitcom The Grinder, even contributing to the writing team during his college years. Lowe described collaborating with his son as “fantastic.”
In 2023, the duo reunited on screen in Unstable, which premiered on March 30. The series follows a socially awkward son working for his successful and eccentric father at a biotech research company. John Owen’s roles include co-creator, co-executive producer, and writer, as well as portraying Lowe’s character’s son.
“All parents, no matter who they are, always find ways to annoy you,” John Owen joked in a March 2023 Men’s Health interview, referring to their on-screen relationship. “As you age, your parents transition into more of a friendship role while still managing to annoy you. And they should!”
The previous year, he praised his father as a role model, particularly for how Lowe navigated challenges during his youth and maintained a strong family life. “Given what he faced in his twenties, his rapid rise to fame, and his long career in the public eye, it’s impressive that he emerged as a dedicated family man and a genuinely kind individual.”
During a heartfelt moment on The Drew Barrymore Show in April 2023, Lowe honored John Owen by presenting him with a five-year sobriety chip. “I love you. I’m proud of you,” he said. John Owen responded, “I’m speechless. I usually have a witty retort, but I don’t have one for that. That was very nice of you.”
On May 2, 2023, John Owen joined his father on the picket line in solidarity with Writers Guild of America union members striking after stalled negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
When Lowe turned 60 in March 2024, John Owen humorously shared a photo on Instagram featuring John Stamos photoshopped in place of his father, playfully prompting his followers to send birthday wishes.
“If you could be so kind, please send some birthday love my dad’s way… HE’S SIXTY TODAY!!!! Love you forever, pops,” he wrote. Lowe responded with a laugh, saying, “To say I’m surprised would be a lie.”
In July 2024, John Owen reflected on his experience working alongside his father during a Good Morning America appearance. “I’ve learned how to be more professional on set,” he noted, admiring Lowe’s strong work ethic.
