Kayleigh McEnany, co-host of Fox News’ weekday program Outnumbered, has officially returned to television after taking maternity leave to welcome her second child, Avery Grace. The political commentator and former White House press secretary shared her excitement about resuming her role at Fox News while also celebrating the joys of new motherhood.
Her comeback has been warmly received by viewers and colleagues, marking a new chapter in her professional and personal life.
Welcoming Baby Avery Grace
In December 2022, McEnany announced the birth of her daughter, Avery Grace, whom she shares with her husband, professional baseball player Sean Gilmartin. The couple also has an older daughter, Blake. Avery’s arrival expanded their family and was followed by a period of maternity leave during which McEnany focused on bonding with her newborn and adjusting to life as a mother of two.
Like many working parents, McEnany balanced the responsibilities of early parenthood with preparations for her eventual return to work. She occasionally shared family updates on social media, offering followers glimpses of milestones with Avery and her big sister.
A Return to Outnumbered
This September, McEnany confirmed that she would be returning to her regular co-hosting duties on Outnumbered, Fox News’ midday panel program. The show features four female commentators and one male guest who discuss current events, policy issues, and cultural topics.
McEnany expressed gratitude for the time she spent on maternity leave, describing it as a chance to experience “precious moments” with her newborn that cannot be relived. She also acknowledged that while she treasured her family time, she looked forward to reconnecting with her colleagues and the program’s audience.
Her announcement came with a lighthearted but heartfelt message: she was ready to resume her work in broadcasting while carrying with her the perspective of a mother caring for two young children.
Work-Life Balance in the Public Eye
McEnany’s return highlights a broader conversation about work-life balance, particularly for women in demanding public-facing roles. According to a Pew Research Center survey, nearly half of working mothers report challenges in balancing career and family responsibilities.
For McEnany, being candid about her journey allows her to connect with viewers who may face similar challenges. By openly sharing experiences of maternity leave, family milestones, and her return to the workplace, she joins other prominent women in media who use their platforms to normalize the realities of modern parenthood.
Family Life With Sean Gilmartin
McEnany’s husband, Sean Gilmartin, is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for teams including the New York Mets and Tampa Bay Rays. The couple married in 2017 and have since built a family centered on their shared values and faith.
In interviews and public appearances, McEnany has often highlighted the importance of family support in managing the dual demands of her career and motherhood. She credits her husband, extended family, and professional colleagues for creating an environment that enables her to thrive both at home and at work.
Public Engagement and Social Media Presence
During her maternity leave, McEnany used social media sparingly but meaningfully. She posted family photos, reflections on motherhood, and updates about her eventual return to Fox News.
Her followers responded with messages of support, praising her openness and celebrating her growing family. This engagement reflects how public figures today use platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) not only for professional updates but also for more personal storytelling.
Women in Broadcasting: A Broader Perspective
McEnany’s experience also reflects a larger trend in broadcasting. Networks increasingly support maternity leave and flexible arrangements for female anchors and reporters. Prominent journalists including Savannah Guthrie (Today), Norah O’Donnell (CBS Evening News), and Erin Burnett (CNN) have all spoken publicly about balancing motherhood with broadcasting careers.
According to the International Women’s Media Foundation, ongoing challenges remain, but visible examples of women like McEnany highlight progress in making journalism and broadcasting more inclusive and family-friendly.
Viewer Reception to McEnany’s Return
Fox News viewers have consistently expressed strong support for McEnany as a co-host of Outnumbered. Her sharp analysis of political issues, combined with her ability to bring personal experiences into conversations, resonates with a broad audience.
Following her announcement, social media was filled with congratulatory comments from fans who were glad to see her return. Many celebrated both her role as a mother and her professional achievements.
Kayleigh McEnany’s Future at Fox News
With her return, McEnany is expected to continue contributing commentary on U.S. politics, media, and cultural debates. As the nation approaches another election cycle, her insights will remain a key feature of Fox News programming.
At the same time, she continues to balance motherhood with her career, offering viewers not only analysis but also a perspective shaped by her personal life experiences.
Conclusion
Kayleigh McEnany’s return to Fox News after maternity leave marks both a professional milestone and a personal celebration. Welcoming her daughter Avery Grace has deepened her role as a mother, while stepping back into her position on Outnumbered reestablishes her as a central figure in daytime broadcasting.
Her journey resonates with working parents everywhere who juggle the joys and challenges of family life alongside demanding careers. By sharing her experiences openly, McEnany contributes to an ongoing dialogue about motherhood, career balance, and representation of women in media.
As she embarks on this new chapter, audiences can expect to see McEnany continue to shape conversations both on and off the screen — with her professional expertise and her growing family inspiring viewers across the country.