By Lifestyle & Entertainment Desk

Known for his sharp commentary and confident presence on Fox News, Pete Hegseth often appears on screen as a firm, outspoken figure tackling political debates and social issues. Yet beyond the bright lights of the studio, Pete steps into an entirely different role: that of a devoted father whose greatest joy is time spent with his children. His life isn’t just about headlines or interviews—it’s also about quiet, precious moments at home, especially those he shares with his youngest daughter, affectionately called “Little Daughter.”

A Father of a Large Family

Pete Hegseth is a father to six children—a bustling, lively household filled with laughter, playful noise, and the occasional sibling squabble. Friends close to Pete say he’s fiercely dedicated to striking a balance between his demanding career and family life. To Pete, fatherhood isn’t merely a duty—it’s his true calling.

“Work gives me a career, but family is where I truly belong,” Pete once shared in a rare interview about his personal life. No matter how packed his schedule becomes, he firmly believes time with his children is non-negotiable.

The Ordinary Days of an Extraordinary Figure

Beyond the cameras, Pete Hegseth leads a surprisingly simple life. On mornings when he’s free from early shoots, he enjoys making breakfast for his kids himself. The meals are modest yet hearty: scrambled eggs, toast, fresh fruit, and occasionally pancakes, which his children adore.

After breakfast, Pete takes on the school drop-off routine. But he’s not merely the driver; he uses the time in the car to check in on each child’s life—school, friends, and dreams. “I want my kids to know I’m listening. It’s how I stay connected with them, especially as they’re growing up so fast,” Pete explains.

Afternoons, if his schedule permits, are reserved for family time. Pete often joins his kids for basketball in the driveway, soccer in the yard, or helping to prepare dinner together. He’s said many times that these everyday activities are life’s true treasures.

Special Moments with “Little Daughter”

Among Pete’s six children, his youngest—nicknamed “Little Daughter”—seems to hold a particularly tender place in his heart. While Pete insists he loves all his children equally, he’s admitted he’s especially soft when it comes to his youngest child’s innocent spirit and sensitive nature.

Every evening, once the older kids are busy with homework or their own games, Pete sets aside a special pocket of time just for “Little Daughter.” One cherished ritual between them is reading together. Pete allows her to choose any book she likes—sometimes fairy tales, other nights science or animal stories.

“He reads with so much energy, doing all the voices and expressions. Little Daughter is always giggling, eyes wide with wonder,” a close family friend shared. The stories are more than just entertainment; for Pete, they’re moments to teach his daughter about kindness, courage, and the importance of family.

After reading time, the pair often segue into gentle activities like building blocks, coloring, or playing with small toys. “He’s endlessly patient. Even if it’s just assembling a toy car, he lets her figure it out on her own first, only stepping in when she really needs help,” the friend added.

A Different Side of a Familiar Face

Many colleagues have expressed surprise at seeing this softer side of Pete—the man who’s so commanding on television becoming utterly gentle and attentive as a father. “For Pete, nothing comes before his family. He always says everything he does is to make his kids proud of their dad,” shared a fellow Fox News colleague.

Pete firmly believes that those small daily moments—reading, playing, simply listening—are the threads that weave an unbreakable family bond. He often emphasizes that a father’s presence matters far more than any material gifts.

“Seeing My Kids Happy Means Everything”

“To me, the best thing in life isn’t being recognized or being on TV every night. The best thing is coming home, hugging my kids, hearing them tell me their little stories, and seeing their smiles. Especially those moments with my youngest daughter—they help me slow down and truly appreciate life,” Pete once said, visibly moved.

While Pete Hegseth may be a familiar face on American television, to his family, he’s simply a dedicated, loving dad. And perhaps, the most important stage on which Pete Hegseth wants to shine is not a news studio—but those quiet evenings reading books and sharing laughter with his “Little Daughter.”