Dayton’s own Rob Lowe has message of support for his ‘Buckeye family’

Credit: Victoria Theatre Association

Credit: Victoria Theatre Association

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has been getting messages of support from across the nation during the coronavirus crisis, most notably from celebrity Daytonian Allison Janney. On Sunday, Rob Lowe, her former "West Wing" co-star who also grew up in Dayton, added his voice of support to Ohioans everywhere.

>> READ MORE: Oscar winner Allison Janney's advice for fellow Daytonians gets DeWine's attention

DeWine tweeted Lowe’s message of hope along with a message of his own: “Ohio’s resolve to #FlattenTheCurve has caught the attention of former Ohio resident, Rob Lowe! He sent us this message yesterday to share with you today. Everyone (especially younger Ohioans) should hear his message encouraging you to #StayHomeOhio.”

His message to “fellow Ohioans” was practical and sprinkled with humor.

"Forgive my Tiger King look, but that's what's keeping me entertained as I shelter in place in California," Lowe quipped, referring to the popular Netflix docuseries.

>> READ MORE: 10 fun shows we think you should binge watch right now

“I just want to buttress what your great governor is telling you all,” Lowe continued. “It’s time for us to stay in place, get to know our families. Even though you may feel healthy you’re doing almost as much of a service to your community as the brave men and women first responders by just staying put. My love to you, my family prayers to you. I love my Buckeye family so much. Stay safe and stay home, God bless.”

>> READ MORE: 10 actors you should know who were born in Dayton

Credit: Michael Jannides

Credit: Michael Jannides

Lowe is known for his roles in “St. Elmo’s Fire” and “Parks and Recreation,” among many other TV and movie credits. Before he moved to Malibu, Lowe grew up in Oakwood and Dayton’s Five Oaks neighborhood.

Ohio in general, and Dayton in particular, have always held a special place in Lowe's heart. In a recent interview with my colleague Amelia Robinson, he described growing up here as "an amazing time."

>> READ MORE: Rob Lowe on growing up in Dayton: "It was an amazing time." 

“There was so much opportunity in Dayton. When I came to California, there was no theater to do for a young kid. Literally, nothing and there still isn’t,” Lowe said of his childhood.

“I think that Daytonians are good people. They are decent. They are normal, really normal,” he continued in the interview. “I think that goes a long way to success.”

Lowe most recently starred in the FOX show "9-1-1: Lone Star," which is currently streaming on Hulu.

About the Author