Steve and Peter Doocy of Fox News Share Insights on Their Father-Son Relationship

As a child, Peter Doocy fondly recalls beginning each morning by watching his father, Steve Doocy, on television.

In May, Steve, 68, made the announcement that he would be leaving his role on Fox News’ curvy couch in New York City to relocate to Florida, where he would cohost Fox & Friends three days a week.

“It’s certainly an adjustment not to see him on TV during the first three hours of my weekdays, where he has been each breakfast since I was in second grade,” Peter, 37, told Us Weekly exclusively ahead of Father’s Day weekend. “But we are thrilled that this new role allows him to spend significantly more time with the grandkids, who now have the opportunity to do one of my favorite things: join him at work.”

This was indeed the case earlier this month when Peter and his wife, Fox Business correspondent Hillary Vaughn, took their two kids to Nationals Park to visit Grandpa at the Congressional baseball game.

Shortly thereafter, Steve was back in Florida soaking up the sun and gearing up for his next venture.

“Our children now live across the country, so if you were them – and your parents invited them for a weekend – where would they prefer to go?” Steve queried. “To the New Jersey home where they grew up, still having to clean their closets — or to the sunny, fun-filled Florida? ‘Grab the suntan lotion Dad! We’ll be in Florida Friday night! And can mom pick up that smoked fish dip from Publix?’”

When asked if he might consider relocating his family to Florida, Peter expressed openness to the idea.

“Definitely, we adore Florida!” he told Us. “But at this moment, my wife Hillary and I need to stay close to all the action on Capitol Hill and at the White House.”

In honor of Father’s Day, both Peter and Steve spoke with Us about managing fatherhood alongside demanding careers, and gave a glimpse into their strong bond beyond the spotlight.

Continue reading to discover more about the special father-son relationship between Steve and Peter.

How do you feel seeing Peter follow your path and achieve success in journalism?

Steve: Given how challenging the TV industry can be, his mother Kathy and I had thought Peter would head to business or law school until he made national headlines with a couple of humorous questions posed to then-presidential candidate John McCain that went viral. One opportunity led to another, and before we knew it, he was serving as the Fox News correspondent for college students. I never imagined the title of senior White House correspondent would be in his future.

I fondly recall taking him to the White House Easter Egg Roll when he was around two, and he was munching on my press pass. Fast forward thirty-odd years and now he’s working in the White House! It’s almost comical to think he’s once again munching on my press pass during visits.

Do you find yourselves protective of each other given your public profiles?

Peter: We’re always looking out for one another. My dad remains the best in the industry and has taught me everything I know about television. These days, discussing the news with him is a fantastic way to break down the most intriguing aspects of major stories before I interact with the President.

Steve: Early in Peter’s TV career, he would often seek my advice on new situations he encountered, referencing how I handled those issues years ago. My past experiences likely saved him some time from making the same mistakes I did three decades ago. After 16 years as a network correspondent, Peter has traveled the world with presidents and global press — today, I find myself seeking his guidance more often than he asks me!

Naturally, as his father, if I come across a quote or statistic I think would help with his reporting, I pass it along. If he uses my insights on-air, it fills me with joy to know that despite the weight of the world on his shoulders, he still seeks his old man’s counsel.

What’s the best advice your dad has shared with you about fatherhood?

Peter: To relish every moment in the present instead of always looking ahead at milestones for the kids… and, if the coaches prefer other kids for playing time in middle school sports, the best way to ensure your kids get playing time is just to become the coach. After a few seasons of sitting on the bench, he volunteered to be my 8th-grade baseball coach, picked all my friends during the town league ‘draft,’ and we nearly won it all during the most fun season I’ve ever had in any sport.

Can you share what makes Steve shine as a grandfather?

Peter: He’s actively helping me recreate the most cherished parts of my childhood for our kids. My parents preserved many of my favorite items, like Brio trains and Curious George books, in remarkable condition. My basement is now a near-exact replica of my childhood home in New Jersey, complete with a ping pong table he took two hours to rebuild last week.

What do you admire most about Peter, both personally and professionally?

Steve: No one in that briefing room prepares as thoroughly as Peter does when sitting down to ask questions of either the press secretary or the President. He typically spends two hours each morning researching thoughtful and significant topics to inquire about. His diligent work ethic is likely a trait I instilled in him. He witnessed me rising at 3 a.m. for three decades to go to work, probably believing that this was the routine for every father. Looking back, I might be the only dad in the neighborhood who returned home wearing heavy pancake makeup.

What do you hope your kids will understand about the United States of America?

Peter: That anything is achievable. Bridget enjoys playing with a plastic chef kit, and if she aspires to be a chef one day, she can absolutely pursue that. If she wishes to turn her favorite activity, ballet, into a career, she can follow that dream as well. George may be too young for that kind of play, but we impart the same message to him. They will always recognize that the endless opportunities before them exist because of the bravery of countless men and women who have signed up to safeguard our freedom.

Fox & Friends airs on Fox News weekdays at 6 a.m. ET.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.