Jesse Watters’ Unconventional Courtship Story Sparks Laughter and Debate on ‘The Five’

Fox News host Jesse Watters left his co-hosts in stitches – and viewers divided – when he shared a cheeky anecdote about how he wooed his now-wife Emma during a recent episode of the panel show The Five.

inquirer.com

latimes.com

variety.com

The 47-year-old Primetime host recounted the tale while discussing unrelated topics, cracking that he once “let the air out of” Emma’s tires back when he was pursuing her. “She couldn’t go anywhere. She needed a lift, I said, ‘Hey, you need a lift?’ She hopped right in the car,” Watters explained with a grin, prompting bursts of laughter from the panel.

gettyimages.com

gettyimages.co.uk

Co-host Greg Gutfeld quipped, “You’re basically the Zodiac Killer,” while Judge Jeanine Pirro pressed for details: “Is that the first time you did it or did you use that before?” Watters shot back, “Works like a charm,” before adding, “It has a happy ending! We’re married!”

facebook.com

TONIGHT! Greg Gutfeld welcomes Judge Jeanine Pirro, Chadwick Moore …

The clip quickly went viral on social media, eliciting a mix of amusement and criticism. Some viewers found the story endearing in its boldness, while others labeled it “creepy” or “predatory,” especially given the context of their relationship origins.

Watters, then in his late 30s and married to his first wife Noelle Inguagiato, met Emma DiGiovine – a then-25-year-old associate producer on his show Watters’ World – at Fox News. Their affair became public in 2017, leading to Watters’ divorce in 2019 after 10 years of marriage and twin daughters, Sophie and Ellie.

Just months later, Watters proposed to Emma, and the couple tied the knot in a star-studded ceremony in Naples, Florida, in December 2019. Notable guests included members of the Trump family.

dailymail.co.uk

nickiswift.com

thelist.com

The pair have since built a family, welcoming son Jesse Bailey Watters Jr. in April 2021 and daughter Georgina “Gigi” Post Watters in April 2023. Emma often shares glimpses of their life on social media, celebrating milestones like anniversaries and family outings.

people.com

people.com

instagram.com

On their first wedding anniversary, Emma posted loving tributes: “Married the love of my life one year ago today… And what a year it’s been.” Watters has described the tire story as light-hearted banter, insisting it contributed to their “happy ending.”

The anecdote resurfaced echoes of a similar 2022 incident, where Watters first shared the tale on air – only to later clarify it was “a joke” amid backlash. This time, the retelling on The Five reignited discussions about courtship tactics and workplace romances in media.

Despite the controversy, Watters and Emma appear stronger than ever, frequently showcasing their blended family – including Watters’ twins from his first marriage – in joyful updates.

As one of cable news’ most outspoken figures, Watters continues to blend personal stories with commentary on Jesse Watters Primetime and The Five, keeping audiences engaged with his signature mix of humor and candor.