Rob Lowe says the ''gift of alcoholism'' changed his life.

The 'Parks and Recreation' star, who is celebrating 25 years of sobriety, feels that his addiction and subsequent recovery has made him a better person.

He said: ''Being in recovery has given me everything of value that I have in my life. Integrity, honesty, fearlessness, faith, a relationship with God, and most of all gratitude. It's given me a beautiful family and an amazing career. I'm under no illusions where I would be without the gift of alcoholism and the chance to recover from it.''

Rob, 51, made the comments as he accepted the Spirit of Sobriety award at the Brent Shapiro Foundation Summer Spectacular in Beverly Hills, California, on Saturday night (12.09.15).

The '80s teen heartthrob was supported at the event by his wife Sheryl and his 19-year-old son John Owen.

Crediting his wife with helping him get sober, Rob said: ''She inspired me to get sober. She's put up with my defects of character as they call it. In sobriety the lessons keep coming if you're lucky enough to be along as long as I have.

''She's stood by through all of that. And I love you very much,'' he told his wife from the stage.