She’s smart, polished, and one of the most recognizable faces on cable news, but fans have always wondered about the one thing Dana Perino rarely discusses.
Why didn’t she have children?
The longtime Fox News anchor and former White House Press Secretary has spent decades in the public eye, commanding headlines with her sharp political insight and calm, composed demeanor. But behind the scenes, Perino made a personal decision that quietly set her apart from many of her peers.
And now, we’re finally getting a glimpse into why.
One Sentence That Said Everything
In her memoir And the Good News Is…, Perino doesn’t make a big announcement. Instead, she offers a single, understated line: she “gradually came to realize” she didn’t want children.
No detailed explanation. No apology. Just a calm, matter-of-fact reflection that spoke volumes to those paying attention.
According to Fact Verse Perino never had a desire to become a mother and she has no regrets about the decision. She once wrote “I think it’s important for women to know they don’t have to follow a script. You can have a rich and meaningful life in different ways“
A Love Story — and a Different Kind of Family
Perino, now 52, has been happily married to British businessman Peter McMahon since 1998. Their story began with a chance meeting on a flight and has lasted more than two decades.
While the couple never had biological children, McMahon brought two from a previous marriage into the family, and over time, Dana embraced the role of stepmother, and now step-grandmother.
Mentor. Author. Quiet Role Model.
While she didn’t choose motherhood in the traditional sense, Perino has long poured her energy into mentorship, particularly among young women entering journalism and politics.
Her bestselling book Everything Will Be Okay became a modern self-help guide for career-driven women navigating adulthood, filled with advice, confidence-building tools, and encouragement. It cemented her place as a behind-the-scenes guide for a younger generation.
Finding Comfort in the Company of Pets
Perino is also known for her deep bond with her pets. Her late Vizsla, Jasper, became a beloved Fox News mascot — often appearing on-air and featured across her social media.
After Jasper’s passing, Percy joined the family and quickly won over fans in his own right, frequently showing up on Dana’s Instagram and occasionally on set. Perino has often spoken about the comfort and companionship her pets provide, calling them a steady and uplifting presence in her life.
Not Rejection — Just Redirection
People close to Perino say her decision not to have children was never about rejection, but rather a choice shaped by life circumstances. Her time in the White House was all-consuming, and her rise at Fox News left little room for raising a family.
Instead of regrets, she focused on meaningful work, strong relationships, and the freedom to live on her own terms.
Living Life Her Way
In a world where women are often defined by whether or not they become mothers, Dana Perino quietly chose a different kind of legacy, one grounded in love, impact, and self-awareness.