Sean Payton's personal life often draws as much public curiosity as his decades-long NFL coaching career. Behind the Super Bowl titles and high-pressure sidelines sits a history shaped by long-term marriage, public divorce, and a completely restructured family dynamic.
The primary figure from Payton's past marriage is Beth Shuey, an entrepreneur and author who shared over two decades of life with the prominent coach. While many casual football fans focus solely on his playbook, understanding the background of his family offers a complete look at the man steering the Denver Broncos.
Who Is Beth Shuey?
Born and raised in the United States, Beth Shuey graduated from Indiana State University. She crossed paths with Payton during his early coaching days when he worked at the university.
The pair married in 1992 as Payton climbed the collegiate and professional coaching ranks, moving from assistant roles to offensive coordinator positions, and eventually landing his historic gig with the New Orleans Saints. During their marriage, Shuey managed household stability through frequent relocations while raising their two children, Meghan and Connor.
Beyond her identity as an NFL spouse, Shuey built a career as a businesswoman. She later co-authored a book titled Beautiful Ashes, which shares messages of hope and healing drawn from her personal experiences navigating a public split.
Marriage, Separation, and Divorce
The marriage between Payton and Shuey lasted for more than twenty years. Cracks in the relationship began making headlines when Payton filed for divorce in 2012, a tumultuous year that also saw him suspended for the entire NFL season due to the Saints' bounty scandal.
The divorce proceedings finalized in 2014. Unlike many high-profile celebrity breakups that devolve into endless litigation, both parties kept the details relatively private. As part of the settlement, Shuey retained their primary Texas residence, which was valued at roughly $3.5 million at the time.
Both individuals moved forward constructively. Shuey transitioned into her entrepreneurial endeavors and public speaking, while Payton maintained his demanding trajectory in professional football.
Life After Divorce: New Beginnings
Both Payton and Shuey found lasting love and remarried years after their separation.
- Beth Shuey's Second Marriage: Shuey married Jamie McGuire, a real estate agent, in September 2020. She gained two stepchildren through the marriage, blending her family while living in Raleigh, North Carolina.
- Sean Payton's Current Marriage: Payton began dating former pageant contestant and model Skylene Montgomery in 2014. After a five-year courtship, Payton proposed in November 2019, and the couple married in a ceremony in June 2021.
Where Are Sean Payton's Children Now?
Payton and Shuey share two adult children, Meghan and Connor.
- Meghan Payton: Born in 1997, Meghan pursued a career in sports media. She has worked as a digital reporter and host, covering athletic events and carrying forward her father's competitive passion into broadcast journalism.
- Connor Payton: Connor attended college and largely stayed out of the public spotlight compared to his sister and father, focusing on private pursuits away from the NFL media glare.
Despite the family restructuring following the 2014 divorce, both parents remained active fixtures in their children's lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Sean Payton and Beth Shuey get married?
They tied the knot in 1992 while Payton was working as an assistant coach at the collegiate level.
Why did Sean Payton and Beth Shuey divorce?
The couple kept the exact personal reasons private. Filing occurred in 2012, and the divorce was finalized amicably in 2014.
Who is Beth Shuey's current husband?
She married real estate professional Jamie McGuire in September 2020.
Who is Sean Payton's current wife?
Sean Payton married Skylene Montgomery in June 2021 after dating for several years.
