Rob Lowe, the quintessential Hollywood heartthrob, has captivated audiences for decades, not just with his acting prowess but also with his dynamic romantic life. From his early days as a member of the "Brat Pack" to his current status as a respected veteran actor, Lowe's relationships have often been in the public eye, culminating in a remarkably enduring marriage that defied many Hollywood norms.
One of Lowe's most significant early relationships was with Melissa Gilbert, the beloved star of Little House on the Prairie. They first met as teenagers, with Lowe reportedly approaching Gilbert on a studio lot. Their romance began in 1981 when both were around 17, and it evolved into a tumultuous, on-again, off-again six-year relationship. The couple even became engaged, a significant milestone for the young stars.
Their relationship was marked by intense passion but also by challenges, including infidelity on both sides, as publicly acknowledged by Gilbert. A particularly poignant moment in their history was Gilbert's pregnancy with Lowe's child, which tragically ended in a miscarriage in 1987. This profound loss, coupled with their individual struggles and the pressures of fame, ultimately led to the end of their engagement and their relationship in 1987.
During his rise to fame in the 1980s, Lowe was linked to several other notable personalities. He reportedly dated Nastassja Kinski while filming The Hotel New Hampshire, and also had a brief relationship with Princess Stephanie of Monaco. Other names mentioned in his dating history from this period include socialite Cornelia Guest, supermodel Janice Dickinson, and actresses Laura Dunlop, Jan Parsons, and Fawn Hall.
Following his split from Melissa Gilbert, Lowe entered into a highly publicized relationship with Oscar-winning actress Marlee Matlin. Their romance began in 1987 and lasted until 1988. Matlin later spoke about the intensity of their connection and the challenges they faced due to media scrutiny and their respective careers.
Around the same time, Lowe was also reportedly involved with actress Winona Ryder. They met on the set of the film Square Dance in 1987. While details of their relationship are less extensively documented than others, it was another high-profile connection for Lowe during a period of significant personal and professional transition.
The trajectory of Rob Lowe's romantic life took a definitive turn when he reconnected with Sheryl Berkoff. They first met on a blind date in 1983, but a romantic relationship did not immediately blossom. Their paths crossed again in 1989 when Berkoff was working as a makeup artist on the set of Lowe's film, Bad Influence. This professional collaboration sparked a deep personal connection, and they began dating.
Their relationship marked a pivotal period for Lowe, as he was also embarking on his journey to sobriety. He has often credited Berkoff with providing crucial support during this time, helping him embrace a more stable and monogamous lifestyle. Lowe proposed to Berkoff, and they were married on July 22, 1991, in an intimate ceremony at a mutual friend's house. This decision to marry came swiftly, with Lowe recalling that Berkoff had him committed to a wedding date just a month after his proposal.
The couple quickly started a family, welcoming their first son, Matthew Edward Lowe, in 1993. Two years later, their second son, John Owen Lowe, was born in 1995. Both sons have since followed their father into the entertainment industry, often appearing alongside him in projects and on social media, showcasing their close family bond.
Their marriage has been a testament to resilience, weathering challenges including a widely publicized sex tape controversy from Lowe's past, which occurred shortly after their marriage. Sheryl Berkoff's unwavering support through these difficult times has been a consistent theme in Lowe's public reflections on their relationship. He has frequently praised her strength, security, and understanding, which he believes have been fundamental to their lasting happiness.
Today, Rob Lowe and Sheryl Berkoff are one of Hollywood's most enduring couples, celebrating over three decades of marriage. They frequently share glimpses of their life together on social media, often with affectionate tributes and playful banter. Their relationship is often cited as a rare success story in an industry known for its transient romances, demonstrating a deep partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and continuous support. Lowe often speaks about the profound impact Sheryl has had on his life, crediting her with helping him build the stable and fulfilling family life he cherishes. Their journey reflects a transformation from the fast-paced, high-profile romances of his youth to a grounded, committed partnership that has stood the test of time.