CELEBRITY
Maureen McPhilmy: Inside the Life of Bill O’Reilly’s Former Wife
Maureen isn’t a celebrity chasing attention. She’s a private woman who happened to marry someone famous—and later found herself in the middle of a very public storm. Her story is not about scandal, but about resilience, dignity, and the strength to protect her family.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Maureen McPhilmy’s life—from her quiet small-town roots, to her high-profile marriage and divorce, and where she is today in 2025.
Quick Facts About Maureen McPhilmy
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Full Name: Maureen Elizabeth McPhilmy
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Date of Birth: May 11, 1966 (Age 59 in 2025)
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Birthplace: Chittenango, New York, USA
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Current Residence: Manhasset, New York
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Profession: Public Relations Executive
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Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
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Weight: ~165 lbs (75 kg)
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Religion: Christian (Roman Catholic upbringing)
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Children: 2 (with Bill O’Reilly)
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Marriages: Bill O’Reilly (1996–2011), Jeffrey Gross (current husband, police detective)
Early Life in Chittenango
Maureen was born and raised in Chittenango, New York, a small town known for being the birthplace of The Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum.
Her childhood was not one of wealth or glamour. When she was only five, her parents divorced. Her mother worked as a gardener, and her father made a living at a local market. These humble beginnings taught her independence and strength, two qualities that later helped her through some of life’s hardest battles.
Career Path: From Waitress to PR Professional
Like many young adults, Maureen’s career started with everyday jobs, including waitressing. But over time, she moved into public relations (PR)—a career dedicated to shaping reputations and helping businesses or individuals manage their public image.
It’s a role that requires calm thinking and discretion, and ironically, those exact skills became essential when her own personal life became the focus of public scrutiny. Despite working in a media-adjacent field, Maureen always preferred to stay out of the spotlight herself.
Meeting Bill O’Reilly
In 1992, Maureen’s life changed when she met Bill O’Reilly, then a rising television host on A Current Affair.
Their personalities were very different:
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Bill was loud, opinionated, and used to the camera.
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Maureen was quiet, private, and grounded.
Despite the contrast, sparks flew, and by November 2, 1996, they were married in a Catholic ceremony at St. Brigid’s Parish in Westbury, New York.
For years, they appeared to be a strong power couple—raising children in a beautiful home, with O’Reilly at the height of his media career. But behind closed doors, the reality was much more complicated.
Family Life and Children
Together, Maureen and Bill had two children:
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Madeline O’Reilly (born 1998)
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Spencer O’Reilly (born 2003)
Maureen dedicated herself to motherhood, often described as a loving, hands-on mom who tried to give her children a normal upbringing.
But the marriage grew tense. Raising kids in a home marked by conflict proved deeply challenging.
The Marriage Breakdown
By 2010, the marriage was unraveling. The couple separated that year, and by September 2011, their divorce was finalized.
Unfortunately, the split was not private. Instead, it turned into a highly publicized custody battle, with allegations and counterclaims making headlines.
Abuse Allegations and Custody Battle
The most shocking revelation came during custody hearings. Their daughter reportedly told a court-appointed therapist that she had seen her father drag Maureen down a staircase by her neck.
O’Reilly denied the allegations, calling them “100% false.” But the court took them seriously. After reviewing the evidence, a judge awarded full custody to Maureen McPhilmy, believing she could provide a safer, more stable home.
It was a painful chapter, but also a defining moment—Maureen proved her strength by standing firm for her children.
Life After Divorce
After the divorce, Maureen chose not to seek revenge or media attention. Instead, she focused on healing and building a new life.
She later met Jeffrey Gross, a Nassau County police detective. Like Maureen, Jeffrey understood loss—his first wife, Kathleen McBride, died of cancer in 2006, leaving him with two children.
Together, Maureen and Jeffrey blended their families, creating a supportive home where love and stability replaced chaos. They eventually married and settled in Manhasset, New York, where they continue to live quietly.
Legal Battles with Bill O’Reilly
Even after their divorce, O’Reilly continued legal action. In 2016, he filed a $10 million lawsuit against Maureen, accusing her of starting her relationship with Jeffrey before their divorce was final and misusing settlement funds.
He also tried to involve the Catholic Church, arguing that Maureen’s remarriage went against religious rules. Reports suggest this even caused issues with her receiving Communion.
Despite this, Maureen stayed composed. She avoided public arguments and focused only on her family’s well-being.
Where Is Maureen McPhilmy in 2025?
Today, Maureen McPhilmy lives a peaceful, private life in New York with Jeffrey and their blended family.
She avoids interviews, keeps off social media, and values privacy above all else. Her focus is simple: raising her children, enjoying family life, and protecting her peace.
Why Maureen McPhilmy’s Story Still Matters
Maureen’s journey isn’t just a celebrity divorce story—it’s about resilience, dignity, and courage.
She showed that even when facing one of the most powerful men in media, she could stand her ground and protect her children. And instead of chasing fame or revenge, she chose peace, privacy, and family.
Her story is a reminder that real strength doesn’t always mean being the loudest—it can mean choosing silence, dignity, and calm in the middle of chaos.
Final Thoughts
Maureen McPhilmy may always be linked to Bill O’Reilly in headlines, but her true story is far richer. She is a mother, a professional, and a woman who survived public turmoil with quiet strength.
FAQs About Maureen McPhilmy
Q1: Who is Maureen McPhilmy?
Maureen McPhilmy is a public relations executive best known as the ex-wife of former Fox News host Bill O’Reilly. She became widely known during their high-profile divorce and custody battle.
Q2: How old is Maureen McPhilmy?
Maureen McPhilmy was born on May 11, 1966. She is 59 years old in 2025.
Q3: Where is Maureen McPhilmy from?
She grew up in Chittenango, New York, and currently lives in Manhasset, New York with her husband Jeffrey Gross.
Q4: What does Maureen McPhilmy do for a living?
She works as a public relations (PR) executive, helping businesses and professionals manage their public image.
Q5: Was Maureen McPhilmy married to Bill O’Reilly?
Yes. Maureen married Bill O’Reilly in 1996, and they were married for 15 years before divorcing in 2011.
Q6: Does Maureen McPhilmy have children?
Yes. She has two children with Bill O’Reilly—a daughter, Madeline (born 1998), and a son, Spencer (born 2003).
Q7: Why did Maureen McPhilmy and Bill O’Reilly divorce?
Their marriage ended in 2011 following years of tension. During the custody battle, Maureen accused O’Reilly of abuse—claims he denied but that influenced the court’s decision to grant her custody.
Q8: Who is Maureen McPhilmy’s current husband?
She is married to Jeffrey Gross, a Nassau County police detective who was previously widowed. Together, they raise a blended family in New York.
Q9: Did Bill O’Reilly sue Maureen McPhilmy?
Yes. In 2016, O’Reilly filed a $10 million lawsuit against Maureen, alleging she misused settlement funds and began her new relationship before their divorce was finalized.
Q10: What is Maureen McPhilmy doing now in 2025?
Today, Maureen lives a quiet, private life with her husband Jeffrey and their children. She avoids media attention and focuses on family and personal peace.