When you grow up as the child of a prominent television personality, the idea of “normal” often takes on a different meaning. That’s certainly true for Owen Tyler Sussman, son of Emmy-winning actress and talk show host Ricki Lake and renowned illustrator Rob Sussman. While his early life played out under the public eye, Owen has taken a quieter, more grounded route into adulthood. Now 23 years old, he is choosing to forge a life defined more by personal growth and creativity than by celebrity headlines.
Early Life in the Spotlight
Born on August 29, 2001, in New York City, Owen entered the world during the height of his mother’s fame. At that time, Ricki Lake was already a household name thanks to her daytime talk show, The Ricki Lake Show, which aired from 1993 to 2004. His father, Rob Sussman, was also building his own legacy, contributing illustrations to prestigious publications like The New York Times and Wired magazine.
Owen was the second child in the Lake-Sussman household, following his older brother, Milo Sebastian Sussman, born in 1997. The two boys grew up in a uniquely creative and high-profile environment, split between their mother’s media career and their father’s artistic work. Their upbringing reflected both privilege and scrutiny, with paparazzi frequently capturing their childhood moments alongside their famous mom.
Parents’ Divorce and Its Impact
When Ricki Lake and Rob Sussman divorced in 2003, Owen was just two years old. Despite the challenges that often accompany high-profile separations, the family prioritized maintaining strong relationships. Ricki has openly shared how she worked to shield Owen and Milo from unnecessary media exposure. One key decision was to opt for homeschooling during certain periods to offer a more stable and grounded education away from the Hollywood buzz.
Both Ricki and Rob remained deeply involved in their sons’ lives post-divorce. Their commitment to co-parenting helped foster a secure environment, and studies like the 2014 report from the American Academy of Pediatrics suggest that such efforts significantly benefit a child’s emotional and social development. Owen’s close relationship with both parents is a testament to that approach.
Inherited Creativity and Personal Interests
Owen’s quiet disposition masks a deep creative spirit—something he inherited from both sides of the family. While he has stayed out of the entertainment spotlight, sources close to the family suggest he shares his father’s passion for illustration and digital art. This influence from Rob Sussman seems to have shaped Owen’s interest in the visual arts, possibly guiding his future career path.
Though not much is revealed publicly, his mother Ricki has occasionally hinted that both her sons are artistically gifted. Owen’s upbringing in a home filled with creative energy appears to have left a strong impression, one that has followed him into adulthood.
Education and Independence
Owen Tyler Sussman graduated from high school in the late 2010s and soon after made the decision to pursue higher education in Chicago—a deliberate step away from his family’s home base and the entertainment circles of Los Angeles and New York. While his exact major or university is not publicly known, this move reflects his desire to build an identity separate from his family legacy.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, college graduates earn significantly more over their lifetimes compared to those with only high school diplomas. For Owen, his education is not just an academic journey but also a strategic step toward a self-sustaining career and life.
As of now, Owen’s net worth is estimated to be modest—likely between $50,000 and $100,000, mostly stemming from family support and small-scale creative endeavors. Unlike many celebrity children, Owen has not leveraged his lineage for fame or endorsements, instead choosing to grow his skills quietly and privately.
Relationship with Family
Despite his private nature, Owen maintains a strong connection with his family. Ricki Lake has occasionally shared glimpses of visits to see her son on campus, highlighting their close bond. His brother Milo also maintains a relatively low public profile, though the two are reportedly very close.
Owen’s ability to stay connected with both parents, even after their separation, underscores the effectiveness of a well-handled divorce and co-parenting strategy. Their support system has allowed him the freedom to explore his interests while remaining grounded.
Final Thoughts
While his last name and parentage might open doors, Owen Tyler Sussman has chosen a slower, more intentional path. He may not be gracing red carpets or trending online, but his life is filled with meaningful choices—education, creativity, and family. His story stands as a powerful example of how children of celebrities can carve out their own identity without being overshadowed by legacy. In a world obsessed with instant fame, Owen’s quiet journey is one worth watching.