Overview

• Lowe posted a TikTok on July 24 explaining that he felt “written off” when his character’s screen time dwindled in season 4 of The West Wing.
• Each milk carton bore Sam Seaborn’s photo with a mock missing-person notice reading “170 pounds. Eyes: blue. Missing since the Christmas episode, 2002” and directed viewers to contact manager Bernie Brilstein.
• He created the gag after series creator Aaron Sorkin shifted focus from Sam Seaborn to a broader ensemble centered on President Josiah Bartlet.
• Lowe sent the cartons to cast members, network and studio executives, producers and crew as a humorous response to his underused role.
• He later described departing the show as walking away from an “unhealthy relationship” and returned for guest spots in the seventh season.