Rob Lowe Opens Up About Being Famous and Single in the 80s: ‘It Was Better Than You Dream’

Rob Lowe Reflects on the Glory Days of the 1980s

Rob Lowe, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in iconic films of the 1980s, recently shared his thoughts on that formative decade during an appearance on the Chicks in the Office podcast. Speaking candidly about the unique energy of the era, he reminisced about how it shaped both his career and personal life.

The conversation took place on September 23, coinciding with the promotion of his latest film, *The Musical*. Lowe looked back fondly on the 1980s, a pivotal time when he was establishing himself in the film industry. He notably starred in cult classics such as *The Outsiders* and *St. Elmo’s Fire*, and his experience during these years has left a lasting impression. “It was just an incredible time,” he expressed, underscoring that it was one of the most exhilarating periods for making movies and enjoying life.

While Lowe did eventually marry Sheryl Berkoff in 1991, his time as a single man in that vibrant decade was a fundamental aspect of his journey. “It was an incredible time to party and be single. I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” he remarked, reflecting on the thrill of youth and creativity that characterised that period.

When host Maria “Ria” Ciuffo mentioned that she often fantasised about living in that era, Lowe responded with enthusiasm, stating, “It’s better than you dream.” He credited the lack of social media and mobile phone cameras with making fame more enjoyable and enabling a sense of freedom that is sorely lacking for today’s stars. “No social media. No cell phone cameras,” he reiterated, highlighting the carefree nature of his social life during that time.

Lowe painted a picture of nights out filled with mystery, where plans could be made but not confirmed via text or call. “The intrigue of it was beautiful,” he noted, indicating that the spontaneity of friendships and social encounters added to the excitement of those years.

Today, Lowe finds himself reflecting on the pressures faced by modern-day celebrities, suggesting that fame now serves as a burden rather than a delight. He believes that younger stars miss out on the same level of fun and freedom that he enjoyed early in his career.

Having grown up in Dayton, Ohio, Lowe moved to California following his parents’ divorce, which set the stage for his ascent in Hollywood. He has two sons, Matthew, 33, and John Owen, 30, and shares that his priorities have shifted significantly since his days of chasing fame. In a previous interview with PEOPLE in 2022, he revealed, “Up until I turned 26, I spent all my time investing in my career. From 26 on, I’ve invested in me; my spirituality, my recovery, my marriage, my family.”

Acknowledging the challenges of life, he stated, “A lot of it has been, excuse me, hard. And no one has a perfect life… but I’m grateful for all of it.” This reflection provides insight into how he has evolved from a rising star to a devoted family man.

Rob Lowe’s nostalgic reminiscence is a testament to a bygone era in Hollywood, when the social landscape was markedly different. His observations on fame and the impact of technology on personal relationships resonate, making it clear that for him, the magic of the ’80s continues to shine brightly in his memory.