Rob Lowe's Milk Carton Prank on West Wing Exit

Rob Lowe revealed he coped with feeling sidelined on The West Wing by sending 'missing person' milk cartons featuring his character Sam Seaborn to the show's cast, producers, and network, with the cartons listing Seaborn's stats and disappearance date. Lowe, initially one of the show's main stars, said his role diminished due to pay and screen time disputes, leading him to feel undervalued. He likened his experience to a toxic relationship but has expressed, in recent interviews, that he now views the situation with humor and no resentment. The milk carton prank was highlighted in a recent TikTok video. Lowe eventually returned for several episodes in the final season, where his character became Deputy Chief of Staff to the new president. The story has since become a notable example of using humor to deal with workplace challenges.