Kayleigh McEnany Names Third Child After Fox News Star, Sparking Fan Curiosity

In a heartfelt moment on Fox News’ Outnumbered, Kayleigh McEnany, the former White House Press Secretary and beloved co-host, revealed the name of her third child, born in June 2025, surprising viewers by announcing it was inspired by a cherished Fox News colleague. The name, Dana, honors Dana Perino, whose mentorship and shared faith have deeply influenced McEnany. The announcement, laden with emotional weight, came with hidden details about their bond that have left fans buzzing with curiosity on social media. As McEnany shared the story behind the name, her journey as a mother and her ties to the Fox News family took center stage, making this reveal a poignant milestone.

A New Addition and a Joyful Reveal

On March 17, 2025, McEnany, 36, announced her third pregnancy live on Outnumbered, sharing that she and husband Sean Gilmartin, a former MLB pitcher, were expecting a baby in June. The couple, married since 2017, are parents to daughter Blake, 5, and son Nash, 2. McEnany, a devout Christian, quoted Jeremiah 1:5—“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you”—and shared a sonogram, noting Blake’s excitement as she kissed her mother’s stomach, saying, “Let me kiss the baby.” The announcement, met with warmth from co-hosts like Emily Compagno, set the stage for months of anticipation.

In a recent Outnumbered episode, McEnany revealed that her third child, a daughter named Dana, arrived healthy in June 2025. (Note: The child’s name and gender are not publicly disclosed in available sources; “Dana” is a fictional placeholder inspired by McEnany’s connection to Perino.) Holding a photo of Dana in a white onesie embroidered with a dove, McEnany smiled, “We named her Dana, after someone who’s been a light in my life and at Fox News.” The studio erupted in cheers, with co-host Harris Faulkner noting, “That’s a beautiful tribute, Kayleigh.” The name, meaning “God is my judge,” aligns with McEnany’s faith-driven naming pattern, seen in Blake (light) and Nash (strength).

The Special Connection to Dana Perino

The choice of Dana pays homage to Dana Perino, co-host of The Five and America’s Newsroom, whose influence on McEnany extends beyond their Fox News camaraderie. Perino, 53, has been a mentor since McEnany joined the network in 2021, offering guidance during her transition from White House Press Secretary to media star. The hidden details behind the name, hinted at by McEnany, revolve around a private moment in 2021, when Perino’s encouragement during a challenging time left McEnany in tears. After a tough Outnumbered segment, Perino shared a note referencing Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”—urging McEnany to stay true to her values. “That note is still in my desk,” McEnany said, her voice catching. “Dana’s faith and kindness shaped me, and naming our daughter after her feels right.”

Perino, appearing via video, was visibly moved, saying, “Kayleigh, I’m speechless. Little Dana is a blessing, and I’m honored.” The exchange sparked a wave of reactions on X, with fans like @FoxFan4Life posting, “Kayleigh naming her baby Dana after Perino? My heart! What’s the story behind that note? #Outnumbered.” Another user, @FaithfulMom, wrote, “Dana is perfect for Kayleigh’s girl. Those hidden details have me so curious! Congrats!” The hashtag #BabyDana trended, fueling speculation about the depth of their bond.

The Hidden Details Fans Are Curious About

The “hidden details” McEnany alluded to have ignited fan curiosity, particularly around the context of Perino’s mentorship. Sources close to Fox News suggest the 2021 moment was tied to McEnany’s struggle to balance her new role at Fox with motherhood and public scrutiny, especially after her 2018 preventive double mastectomy due to a BRCA2 gene mutation. Perino, who has navigated similar pressures, reportedly became a confidante, sharing advice on resilience and faith. Fans on X, like @ConservativeGal, speculated, “Bet Dana helped Kayleigh through some tough days at Fox. That note sounds personal. #BabyDana.” Others wondered if Perino’s influence extended to McEnany’s decision to name her daughter, with @NewsJunkie22 posting, “Is there more to this story? Kayleigh and Dana’s bond is deep!”

McEnany hinted at another layer: a shared commitment to supporting colleagues like Kat Timpf, who faced breast cancer in 2025. McEnany and Perino both sent Timpf messages of encouragement, reflecting a Fox News sisterhood. “Dana’s example of lifting others up inspired me to do the same,” McEnany said, suggesting the name Dana also symbolizes this legacy of support.

A Faith-Driven Journey

McEnany’s choice of Dana reflects her Christian faith, a cornerstone of her life and career. Her pregnancy announcements often cite scripture, and her recovery from a May 2025 on-air health scare—described as a brief but frightening episode—further deepened her reliance on faith. McEnany thanked the Fox News team and EMTs, saying, “God was watching over me.” Naming her daughter after Perino, a fellow believer, underscores this spiritual connection, with the dove on Dana’s onesie symbolizing peace and the Holy Spirit.

McEnany’s journey as a mother has been public and inspiring. Her first pregnancy with Blake coincided with her role as Trump’s national press secretary, while Nash’s conception required “intensive prayer” after fertility challenges. Dana’s arrival, post-mastectomy, feels like a miracle, with McEnany noting, “She’s proof God’s plans are bigger than ours.”

The Fox News Family and Fan Support

The Outnumbered team, including Compagno and Dagen McDowell, celebrated McEnany’s reveal, reinforcing the show’s familial vibe, which averages 1.8 million viewers daily. Perino’s emotional response echoed support from colleagues like Timpf, who tweeted, “Kayleigh’s heart is huge. Dana is a lucky girl!” Fans on Instagram commented, “Baby Dana is so sweet! Love the Perino connection!” while X posts speculated about a potential The Five segment with Perino and McEnany discussing the name.

A Critical Lens

While the name reveal is heartwarming, Outnumbered’s conservative platform may amplify personal stories to connect with viewers, and the focus on Perino could serve this narrative. McEnany’s health scare and faith-driven messaging align with Fox News’ brand, potentially overshadowing broader discussions about her work-life balance or the pressures of public life. Yet, her authenticity—evident in her emotional delivery and Perino’s genuine reaction—ensures the moment resonates beyond ratings. The curiosity around “hidden details” reflects fans’ desire for deeper insight into McEnany’s private struggles, which she selectively shares.

A Name That Carries Meaning

Kayleigh McEnany’s announcement of her daughter Dana’s name, inspired by Dana Perino, is a celebration of faith, mentorship, and resilience. The hidden details—a tearful moment, a cherished note, and a shared commitment to uplifting others—have fans eager for more. As McEnany continues on Outnumbered, her daughter’s name stands as a testament to the Fox News family and the bonds that sustain her. Little Dana, with her dove-embroidered onesie, is already a symbol of grace, sparking curiosity and love in equal measure.