The Untold Truth: 7 Secrets Behind Sean Hannity And Jill Rhodes’ 26-Year Marriage And Amicable Divorce

The long-term marriage between conservative media powerhouse Sean Hannity and journalist Jill Rhodes was one of the most private relationships in the public eye, spanning over two decades before its quiet conclusion. As of late 2024, the narrative surrounding Hannity’s personal life has shifted dramatically, with a major announcement that has brought his past relationship back into the spotlight.

The couple’s journey—from a chance meeting in a radio station to a 26-year partnership that produced two children—ended amicably, a detail they kept private for months. This deep dive into their history reveals the timeline of their relationship, the reasons for their separation, and the latest, highly-publicized updates on their lives today.

Sean Hannity and Jill Rhodes: A Complete Biography Profile

The marriage of Sean Hannity and Jill Rhodes brought together two accomplished figures in the media world, though Rhodes has maintained a significantly lower public profile since their separation.

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Sean Hannity Profile

• Full Name: Sean Patrick Hannity
• Date of Birth: December 30, 1961
• Age (as of 2024): 62
• Place of Birth: New York City, New York, USA
• Career: Conservative political commentator, television host, radio host, and author. He hosts the nationally syndicated radio talk show *The Sean Hannity Show* and the Fox News Channel television show *Hannity*.
• Net Worth: Estimated to be between $250 million and $300 million.
• Political Affiliation: Conservative Party of New York State.
• First Marriage: Jill Rhodes (m. 1993; div. 2019).
• Current Status: Engaged to Ainsley Earhardt (announced late 2024).

Jill Rhodes Profile

• Full Name: Jill Rhodes
• Date of Birth: August 27, 1962
• Age (as of 2024): 62
• Place of Birth: Alabama, USA
• Career: Journalist and former political columnist. She began her career at *The Huntsville Times*.
• Role in Hannity's Career: She was instrumental in the early stages of his career, even serving as his manager for a time.
• Current Status: Maintains a highly private life following the divorce.

Children (Shared by Sean and Jill)

• Son: Sean Patrick Hannity Jr.
• Daughter: Merri Kelly Hannity

How Sean Hannity Met Jill Rhodes: The Origin Story

Their relationship began with a classic media-world meet-cute. In 1991, Sean Hannity was working at a radio station in Huntsville, Alabama, hosting a call-in talk show.

Jill Rhodes, a political columnist for *The Huntsville Times* at the time, called the station to express her interest in his work and offer advice.

Hannity, impressed by her intelligence and southern charm, was immediately smitten. Their professional connection quickly turned romantic, leading to their marriage just two years later in 1993.

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The couple’s early years saw Jill take on a crucial role in managing Sean’s burgeoning career, layering their personal and professional lives in a way that is common for couples in the high-pressure media industry.

The Private Split: When Did Sean and Jill Divorce?

Despite their high-profile status, the end of their marriage was handled with remarkable privacy and discretion. The couple was married for 26 years, a significant milestone in the often-turbulent world of celebrity relationships.

The divorce was legally finalized in 2019, though the public did not become aware of the separation until June 2020.

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The delayed announcement was a deliberate choice to protect their family's privacy, especially their two children, Sean Patrick and Merri Kelly.

A joint statement released at the time confirmed the news, emphasizing that the split was amicable and that they had been separated for some time before the legal dissolution. The statement noted that they "sincerely value and respect their relationship and will continue to share a sweet, loving commitment to their children."

The Real Reason Behind the Divorce

The couple has never publicly disclosed a specific "reason" for the divorce, a choice that aligns with their desire for privacy. However, the pressures of Hannity’s demanding career—which involves hosting a nightly television show and a daily radio program—are often cited as a contributing factor.

The intense scrutiny and travel associated with being a top-tier Fox News host and national radio personality likely took a toll on the long-distance nature of their relationship, even as they shared a home in Long Island, New York.

The key takeaway is that the separation was not marked by public scandal or animosity, but rather a mutual agreement to dissolve the marriage after a period of separation.

Life After Divorce: Sean Hannity’s Engagement to Ainsley Earhardt

The most significant and current update, as of late 2024, is Sean Hannity’s new engagement. After years of speculation, Hannity proposed to his Fox News colleague, Ainsley Earhardt, the co-host of *Fox & Friends*.

The proposal took place over the Christmas holiday at their home church in Florida, a detail that reflects the importance of faith to both of them.

The news was confirmed by Fox News, with a source close to the couple stating they are "overjoyed" and that their respective children are supportive of the union.

This development solidifies a romance that had been rumored for years following both of their respective divorces. Earhardt was also previously married and divorced, and she has one daughter.

The Legacy of the Hannity-Rhodes Family

Despite the end of their marriage, the bond between Sean Hannity and Jill Rhodes remains centered on their children, Sean Patrick and Merri Kelly. Both children have maintained a relatively low profile, though their father occasionally mentions them on his shows.

The family’s ability to navigate a high-profile divorce quietly and amicably serves as a testament to their commitment to co-parenting and mutual respect. This approach allowed them to transition into new phases of their lives without public drama, ensuring stability for their children.

The story of Sean Hannity and Jill Rhodes is ultimately one of a long, successful partnership—both personal and professional—that reached a natural, peaceful conclusion, paving the way for new beginnings for both parties.