Leo Perino, the father of Fox News host and former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino, has died at the age of 79. News of his passing was shared during a broadcast of America’s Newsroom, where Dana Perino serves as co-host, marking a moment of public surprise and sadness for viewers and colleagues alike.

At this time, no cause of death has been publicly disclosed. The family has not released additional details, and further information surrounding the circumstances of his passing remains private. Dana Perino was notably absent from recent programming prior to the announcement, which led to concern among viewers before the news of her father’s death was confirmed on air. Leo Perino Obituary, Denver, CO Death

Leo Perino was remembered as a respected and community-minded individual who spent much of his life involved in civic engagement and local development efforts in Denver, Colorado. He was known for his commitment to strengthening neighborhoods and supporting community initiatives aimed at improving quality of life for residents. Those who worked with him described him as dedicated, approachable, and deeply invested in public service at the local level.

In addition to his civic contributions, Leo Perino reportedly had a background in broadcasting and once worked as a country music disc jockey. His interest in communication and media reflected a broader passion for connecting with people, sharing stories, and engaging with the public—qualities that those close to him say remained part of his personality throughout his life.

Dana Perino has often spoken about her father as a formative influence, crediting him with helping shape her interest in politics, journalism, and public service. She has shared in interviews that conversations with him about current events and government during her upbringing played a meaningful role in her eventual career path, including her tenure as White House Press Secretary and her later work in broadcast journalism.

Leo Perino is survived by his wife, Jan Perino, and their daughters, Dana and Angie. Family remained central to his life, and he was described as a devoted husband and father who maintained close relationships with those he loved.

Following the announcement of his passing, viewers, colleagues, and members of the public have shared condolences and messages of support for the Perino family. Many have reflected not only on Dana Perino’s public career but also on the personal loss experienced by her and her family during this time.

Leo Perino will be remembered for his dedication to family, his community involvement, and the lasting influence he had on those closest to him. His legacy continues through the values he instilled in his family and the impact he made within his community.

The Philadelphia arts community is mourning the loss of Dito van Reigersberg, the co-founder and artistic director emeritus of Pig Iron Theatre Company, who has died at the age of 53. A celebrated performer, educator, director, and cultural innovator, van Reigersberg leaves behind a remarkable legacy that shaped Philadelphia’s theater landscape and inspired generations of artists.

Pig Iron Theatre Company announced his passing, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, students, collaborators, and audiences who admired both his artistic brilliance and his generosity of spirit. Throughout his career, van Reigersberg was recognized as a fearless creative force whose work challenged conventions while bringing joy, humor, and humanity to the stage.

Widely known through his acclaimed drag persona, Martha Graham Cracker, van Reigersberg became one of Philadelphia’s most beloved performers. Through the Martha Graham Cracker Cabaret, he captivated audiences around the world with performances that blended music, comedy, theatricality, and heartfelt storytelling. His alter ego became a cultural institution, earning a devoted following and helping redefine the possibilities of drag performance within contemporary theater.

In 1995, van Reigersberg co-founded Pig Iron Theatre Company alongside Dan Rothenberg, Quinn Bauriedel, and Suli Holum. Over the following decades, he appeared in nearly every major production created by the company, helping transform it from an emerging ensemble into one of the nation’s most respected experimental theater organizations. His contributions were instrumental in the success of groundbreaking works, including the Obie Award-winning Chekhov Lizardbrain.

His accomplishments extended far beyond Pig Iron. He received a Barrymore Award nomination for his portrayal of Hedwig in Hedwig and the Angry Inch and a Helen Hayes Award nomination for Hell Meets Henry Halfway. He also earned Barrymore Awards for Best Ensemble for Mission to Mercury and Best Choreography for Cafeteria.

In 2021, van Reigersberg was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia. Following extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, he continued creating and performing despite significant health challenges. During that time, he developed and performed Poor Judge, celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Martha Graham Cracker Cabaret, and remained an active force in the arts community.

Most recently, he was part of the ensemble for Heather Christian’s Oratorio for Living Things, earning recognition with a 2026 Lucille Lortel Award. His dedication to artistic excellence never wavered, even while facing serious illness.

Dito van Reigersberg will be remembered not only for his extraordinary talent but also for his creativity, mentorship, compassion, and commitment to artistic innovation. His influence on theater, performance art, and Philadelphia’s cultural identity will continue to resonate for years to come.

He is survived by a community of artists, friends, students, and admirers whose lives were enriched by his work and his friendship. His legacy lives on through the countless performances, productions, and people he inspired.

Dito van Reigersberg will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. His voice, vision, and artistry remain an enduring part of the theater world he helped shape.