When Fox News anchor and former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino married British businessman Peter McMahon in 1998, few people predicted their cross-Atlantic romance would endure for decades. At the center of public curiosity is their 18-year age gap. Perino was born in 1972, while McMahon was born in 1954. Despite the generational difference and the initial challenge of an international long-distance relationship, the couple has built a stable, enduring marriage that defies typical high-profile relationship timelines.
How Dana Perino and Peter McMahon Met
The relationship began unexpectedly in August 1997 on a commercial flight from Denver to Chicago. Perino, then 25, and McMahon, 43, happened to be seated next to each other. What started as casual seatmate small talk turned into an hours-long conversation covering their backgrounds, career aspirations, and international travels.
At the time, the logistical hurdles were significant. McMahon lived and worked in Great Britain, while Perino was building her career in the United States. Despite the distance and the 18-year age gap, they stayed in close contact. The romance moved quickly; McMahon proposed outside the Washington National Cathedral, and Perino accepted by letter. They eloped in England on September 30, 1998, followed by a honeymoon in Santorini, Greece.
Navigating an 18-Year Age Gap in Marriage
An 18-year age gap often introduces distinct life-stage dynamics, but Perino and McMahon managed these differences by establishing strong mutual respect and clear career boundaries from the start. When they wed, McMahon had already established a mature international business career, whereas Perino was still ascending through political communications and media.
Rather than creating friction, McMahon's prior life experience provided a steady foundation. McMahon had been married twice before and brought children from his previous relationships into the blended family dynamic. Perino has frequently embraced her role as a stepmother and step-grandmother, integrating smoothly into a mature family structure while pursuing her demanding broadcast career.
The couple also maintains a balance between public visibility and private life. While Perino is a constant fixture on television networks like Fox News, McMahon maintains a low public profile, focusing on his work in medical device consulting and healthcare technology.
Careers and Shared Life Outside the Spotlight
Understanding their dynamic requires looking at what they do away from television cameras.
- Peter McMahon's Career: McMahon has spent decades working as an international executive in medical manufacturing, supply chain logistics, and healthcare ventures, including founding Icon Medical and serving in leadership roles like president of GreenSleeve Medical Corp. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2006.
- Dana Perino's Career: Perino served as the White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush before transitioning into a prominent career as a political commentator, author, and co-anchor of The Five.
- Home Life: The couple divides their time between a primary residence in Manhattan and a coastal getaway in Bay Head, New Jersey. They are well-known animal lovers, frequently sharing updates about their dogs—such as their late Vizsla Jasper, who achieved national recognition, and their current dog Percy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact age difference between Dana Perino and Peter McMahon?
They have an 18-year age gap. Peter McMahon was born on June 6, 1954, and Dana Perino was born on May 9, 1972.
Do Dana Perino and Peter McMahon have children together?
They do not have biological children together. However, McMahon has children and grandchildren from previous marriages, whom Perino is close with.
How long have they been married?
The couple married on September 30, 1998, meaning they have been married for over 27 years.
Where do they live?
They primarily live in Manhattan, New York City, to accommodate Perino's television broadcasting schedule, and spend their weekends at the Jersey Shore.
