Dana Perino & Peter McMahon: Their Lasting Marriage & Love Story

Tracey Mayer 04 May 2025

What do a former White House Press Secretary, a successful Fox News anchor, and a businessman from across the pond have in common? A love story that began in the clouds and has spanned over two decades, proving that love at first flight can indeed lead to a lifetime of companionship.

The tale of Dana Perino and Peter McMahon is one of those heartwarming narratives that occasionally graces the public eye, offering a glimpse into the personal lives of those who often occupy the political and media spheres. Their journey, from a chance encounter on a flight to Denver to a lasting marriage, is a testament to the serendipity of life and the enduring power of connection.

Their story began in 1997, a year that would forever alter the course of both their lives. It was on a flight that Dana Perino, then on her path to becoming a prominent figure in American politics and media, crossed paths with Peter McMahon, a businessman with roots in England. The exact circumstances of their initial meeting are often recounted with a certain romanticism "love at first flight," as Perino herself has playfully described it. Whatever the details, the spark was undeniable, and a connection was forged in the air that would soon lead to solid ground.

Within thirteen months of their meeting, the couple decided to embark on a new chapter together, exchanging vows on September 30, 1998. The ceremony marked the beginning of a partnership that has endured through the years, weathering the storms of public life and the private intricacies of marriage. McMahon, a man whose professional endeavors involve international marketing and the sales of medical products, brought a grounding presence to Perino's increasingly demanding career. Their wedding was not just a personal milestone; it was the start of a shared journey. And as it turned out, it was a journey of several moves: they lived in the UK for a year before relocating to San Diego, they then moved to New York, and eventually, settled down in Bay Head, New Jersey, where they currently reside.

Full Name:	Dana Marie Perino
Born:	May 9, 1972 (age 51)
Birthplace:	Evanston, Wyoming, U.S.
Husband:	Peter McMahon (married September 30, 1998)
Occupation:	Political Commentator, Author, Former White House Press Secretary
Known For:	White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush, Fox News Anchor
Education:	Colorado State University (B.A. in Mass Communications)
Children:	None
Reference:	Wikipedia

The details of their early courtship reveal a couple whose initial connection bloomed quickly, yet was grounded in genuine feelings. After their initial meeting, McMahon, upon returning to England, realized the depth of his affection for Perino. This realization prompted a transatlantic pursuit, one that ultimately led them to the altar. This dynamic hints at the qualities that have likely sustained their relationship: a shared understanding, mutual respect, and the willingness to prioritize the other's happiness.

The couple's relationship stands in contrast to some perceptions of celebrity or high-profile marriages. With both partners maintaining successful careers, their private life remains largely shielded from the publics scrutinizing gaze. This privacy has allowed their relationship to develop in a way that suits them best with respect, affection, and a shared understanding of the demands and pressures each faces. While Dana Perino has built a career in the public eye, her marriage to Peter McMahon has remained a steadfast source of personal stability. In an article published on the Fox News website, Perino revealed the major ingredients for a successful marriage, hinting that it is these principles that have contributed to the strength of her bond with McMahon. Each word in those principles holds a deep meaning for both Dana and Peter.

Perinos career has seen her navigate the complexities of American politics and journalism. She served as the 26th White House Press Secretary for President George W. Bush, a role that placed her at the center of national and international events. Her ability to communicate effectively, to remain composed under pressure, and to navigate the often-turbulent waters of Washington D.C. all speak to her professional resilience and personal strength. Following her time in the White House, Perino has found further success at the cable network, Fox News. As a television presenter, she has carved out a space for herself in the media landscape, providing insight and commentary on current events. She also served as co-host of the popular program The Five, making her a fixture in American households.

While Dana Perinos professional achievements are widely known, her personal life with Peter McMahon provides a fascinating contrast. McMahon, a businessman from England, provides a grounding presence in Perinos often hectic life. Details about McMahons background reveal a life shaped by international experience and a commitment to his work. He has been married twice before, and he has two children from one of these marriagesa son, Barry, and a daughter, Kelly. Additionally, he is a grandfather to Rachel and Sebastian, who were introduced by Perino during a television segment. This highlights a family dynamic, one of blended families and shared familial bonds.

For a couple that met in such an unexpected way, the durability of their relationship is a testament to the depth of their connection. They share more than two decades of marriage, a remarkable feat in any context. Their story also underscores the possibility of finding love in the most unlikely places and the significance of cherishing those unexpected encounters. Their enduring partnership offers an inspiring counterpoint to the often-fleeting nature of relationships in the public eye.

Over the years, fans of the Fox News presenter have often expressed their curiosity about her personal life, a natural result of her prominent position. The details of her relationship with Peter McMahon, however, have remained relatively private. The couple has not publicly shared the specific ingredients that have contributed to their marital longevity, the specifics of their private lives remaining, appropriately, their own. However, the very fact of their lasting connection speaks volumes, implying a marriage founded on mutual respect, understanding, and the ability to navigate the challenges of both professional success and a shared life together.

The couple has established a life that balances their careers with a commitment to each other. The enduring strength of their bond offers an uplifting narrative, one that underscores the enduring power of love, commitment, and the joy of finding a life partner in the most unexpected of places. Their story is a reminder that behind every public figure, there exists a private life, a love story, a journey of shared experience, and that sometimes, the most significant connections are formed in the most unexpected of locations.