The Truth About Dana Perino's 'First Husband': Unveiling The Man She Married In 1998

The question of who was Dana Perino's first husband is one of the most persistent searches related to the Fox News star, and the answer is surprisingly straightforward. As of December 2025, the prominent political commentator and former White House Press Secretary has been married only once, making her current husband, Peter McMahon, her one and only spouse. The widespread confusion and curiosity stem from the fact that Peter McMahon himself had a previous marriage and two children prior to meeting Dana, a detail often conflated with Dana's own marital history. This deep dive uncovers the full story, from their unconventional meeting to their enduring, decades-long partnership.

The couple, who celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary in 2025, met under unique circumstances that quickly led to a cross-continental romance. Despite an 18-year age difference and Peter's previous marriage, their bond has proven to be one of the most stable and supportive relationships in the often-turbulent world of political media. The focus of this article is to clarify the common misconception and provide a comprehensive look at the man she married.

Dana Perino and Peter McMahon: A Biographical Profile

To understand the full context of Dana Perino's marriage, it is essential to first look at the key biographical details of both her and her husband, Peter McMahon, who is the central figure in this story.

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• Dana Marie Perino (Wife)
  • Born: May 9, 1972 (Age 53 as of 2025)
  • Birthplace: Evanston, Wyoming, U.S.
  • Education: Colorado State University–Pueblo (B.A.), University of Illinois Springfield (M.A.)
  • Career Highlights: 26th White House Press Secretary (under George W. Bush), Fox News Host (The Five, America's Newsroom), Author.
  • Marriage History: Married once.
• Peter McMahon (Husband)
  • Born: June 6, 1954 (Age 71 as of 2025)
  • Birthplace: Blackpool, England, U.K.
  • Career Highlights: International Marketing and Sales Executive, worked in global supply chain management for companies like Johnson & Johnson, GlaxoSmithKline, and various pharmaceutical firms.
  • Previous Marriage: Yes, he was previously married.
  • Children: Two children (Barry McMahon and Kelly McMahon) from his previous marriage.
  • Marriage to Dana: Married in 1998.

The Definitive Answer: Clarifying the 'First Husband' Misconception

The simple and definitive answer to the question "who was Dana Perino's first husband" is Peter McMahon. He is her only husband, and the couple has been married for over two decades. The common confusion arises because Peter McMahon had a life and family before meeting Dana, whereas Dana Perino had not been married prior to their union in 1998.

The Story of Peter McMahon's Previous Marriage

Peter McMahon was previously married before he met Dana Perino. While details about his first wife are kept private, it is widely known that he had two children from that relationship: a son, Barry McMahon, and a daughter, Kelly McMahon. Dana Perino has often spoken about her close relationship with her stepchildren, emphasizing that they are very much a part of her extended family. This detail is crucial because it is the source of the persistent "first husband" search query, as many assume the previous marriage belongs to Dana, not Peter.

The age gap is another factor that draws public interest. Peter McMahon is 18 years older than Dana Perino, a difference that has never been a barrier to their successful marriage. Their relationship is a testament to the fact that connection and shared values outweigh conventional timelines.

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How Dana Perino Met Her Only Husband, Peter McMahon

The love story of Dana Perino and Peter McMahon is as unique as it is charming, beginning with a chance encounter on an airplane in 1997.

A Chance Meeting on a Flight

In August 1997, Dana Perino was on a flight from Denver to Chicago when she met Peter McMahon, a British-born international businessman. Peter, who was working in global supply chain management, was seated next to her, and the two immediately hit it off. Despite the age difference and Peter's existing family life in the UK, the conversation flowed easily, and they exchanged contact information.

The Whirlwind Romance and Marriage

Their relationship quickly progressed, despite the logistical challenges of a transatlantic romance. Peter McMahon was living and working in England at the time, leading to a long-distance dating period. Within a year of their first meeting, the couple decided to marry. They tied the knot in a small, intimate ceremony in his native England in 1998. Following the wedding, they enjoyed a ten-day honeymoon in the Greek Isles. Peter eventually relocated to the United States, first living in San Diego, California, and later moving to Manhattan, New York, to support Dana's burgeoning career in politics and media.

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The Success of a Long-Distance, High-Profile Marriage

The longevity of Dana Perino's marriage to Peter McMahon is a frequent topic of discussion, especially given the high-pressure environment of Washington D.C. and cable news.

Navigating the White House Years

When Dana Perino was appointed White House Press Secretary in 2007, the demands on her time were immense. Peter McMahon was incredibly supportive, often commuting to be with her and understanding the commitment required for such a high-profile role. Their relationship was built on a foundation of mutual respect and independence, which allowed Dana to focus on her career without sacrificing her personal life. The couple has often credited their success to their ability to maintain separate interests while sharing a deep bond.

A Shared Life and Furry Companion

Today, the couple lives in New York City and is famously devoted to their beloved Vizsla dog, Jasper, who has become an entity in his own right, often featured on Dana's social media and even making an appearance in her books. After Jasper's passing, the couple welcomed a new Vizsla named Percy. The couple's stability and shared life are often highlighted by Dana, who attributes much of her personal happiness to Peter's calm and supportive presence.

In conclusion, the mystery of "who was Dana Perino's first husband" is solved by realizing the man in question is her current and only husband, Peter McMahon. The confusion is rooted in the fact that Peter had a previous marriage, not Dana. Their enduring love story, which began with a chance meeting on a plane, continues to be a source of inspiration, proving that love can be found in the most unexpected places, regardless of age gaps or professional pressures. The commitment of Dana Perino and Peter McMahon to each other remains a constant in the ever-changing landscape of American media.