Dana Perino Announces Upcoming Hiatus from Fox News Amid Personal Family Matter

By Media Correspondent The Capitol Herald December 26, 2025

Fox News host Dana Perino, a staple on The Five and co-anchor of America’s Newsroom, has announced she will take a temporary break from her on-air duties to attend to a deeply personal family issue. The revelation came during a recent broadcast, where the typically composed Perino fought back tears while sharing that she is “about to lose the one person who holds all of us together.” While Perino has kept details private, the emotional moment has resonated with viewers, sparking widespread support and highlighting the human side of one of cable news’ most recognizable figures.

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Perino, 53, made the announcement on The Five, where she has been a co-host since 2011. Known for her calm demeanor and sharp insights honed from her time as White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush, Perino’s voice trembled as she addressed the audience directly. “This isn’t easy to say, but I’ll be stepping away for a while,” she shared, her eyes welling up. Colleagues, including Greg Gutfeld and Jesse Watters, offered immediate on-air support, with the panel visibly moved. Fox News quickly issued a statement affirming full backing for Perino during this challenging period.

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Though Perino has not specified the nature of the loss, those close to her describe it as involving a cherished family member whose health has taken a serious turn. Perino, who splits time between New York and South Carolina with her husband Peter McMahon, has always guarded her private life fiercely. She often speaks fondly of her family roots in Wyoming and the importance of close-knit bonds. This hiatus underscores the balance public figures must strike between professional demands and personal priorities.

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The news has elicited an outpouring of empathy from fans and colleagues alike. Social media platforms lit up with messages of encouragement, including #StandWithDana trending briefly. “Dana has given so much to us—now it’s our turn to support her,” one viewer posted. Fellow Fox personalities, such as Shannon Bream and Bret Baier, expressed solidarity, emphasizing the network’s “family” ethos. Perino’s vulnerability has humanized her in a polarized media landscape, reminding audiences that even seasoned broadcasters face profound personal trials.

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Perino’s career has been marked by resilience. Joining Fox in 2009 after her White House tenure, she quickly became a viewer favorite for her thoughtful commentary and mentorship of younger talent. Her podcast Perino on Politics and recent book announcements, including her upcoming fiction debut Purple State, showcase her multifaceted contributions to media and literature. This break comes amid a busy period, with Perino actively involved in election coverage and holiday programming.

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Experts note that such public disclosures can foster greater understanding of grief and work-life challenges in high-profile roles. “Anchors like Dana connect with millions daily; sharing vulnerability builds trust,” said media analyst Dr. Sarah Kline. Fox has arranged seamless coverage during her absence, with rotating guests ensuring continuity on The Five and America’s Newsroom.

As Perino steps back to focus on family, the broadcast community rallies around her. Her words—”the one who holds us together”—echo universally, a poignant reminder of life’s fragile ties amid public scrutiny. Viewers await her return, sending prayers and well-wishes for strength in this difficult chapter.

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