The Love Story of Peter Alexander and Alison Starling

Peter Alexander, NBC News’ chief White House correspondent, is known for his sharp questions and relentless pursuit of truth. But off-screen, his most enduring pursuit was winning the heart of Alison Starling, a celebrated anchor for Washington D.C.’s ABC affiliate. Their love story, spanning over a decade of persistence, laughter, and an unforgettable moment, is as compelling as any news story they’ve covered.

Fifteen years ago, Peter and Alison first met as rival reporters in Seattle, working for competing networks. The sparks were immediate—Peter was drawn to Alison’s wit, charm, and undeniable talent. However, Alison held a firm belief that relationships between competing reporters were doomed to fail. The fast-paced, high-stakes world of broadcast journalism, she thought, left little room for romance to flourish. So, when Peter asked her out, she turned him down. Not once, not twice, but ten times over nearly a decade. Yet, Peter’s determination never wavered.

“I was smitten from the start,” Peter recalled in a mid-2010s interview with Washington Family. “But Alison blew me off for years. I had to get creative.” His persistence wasn’t about grand gestures or flashy displays; it was rooted in humor and authenticity. Peter found ways to make Alison laugh, whether through witty banter or lighthearted moments that broke through her professional defenses. He wasn’t just the polished reporter on the evening news—he was a man who genuinely cared, and he was determined to show it.

For years, Alison held her ground, convinced their competing careers would spell trouble. But Peter’s relentless optimism and ability to connect on a personal level slowly chipped away at her reservations. The turning point came in an unexpected moment that Alison later admitted left her defenseless. While Peter has kept the details of this moment private, he shared that it was a simple, heartfelt gesture that caught Alison off guard. “It wasn’t planned,” he said, smiling. “It was just me being me, and somehow, it worked.” For Alison, it was the moment she realized Peter’s persistence wasn’t just charm—it was proof of his unwavering commitment.

In April 2012, Peter and Alison tied the knot, marking the start of a partnership that balanced their demanding careers with a shared love for family. Today, they are proud parents to two daughters, Ava and Emma, who have inherited their parents’ vibrant energy. Peter’s life as a father has transformed him, deepening his empathy as a journalist. “Becoming a dad has changed how I see the world,” he shared. “I feel the stories I cover more deeply now, especially those about family and sacrifice.”

Peter and Alison’s story is a testament to persistence, authenticity, and the power of a well-timed laugh. From rival reporters to lifelong partners, they’ve proven that even in the competitive world of journalism, love can find a way. As Peter continues to cover the White House and Alison shines as an Emmy-winning anchor, their greatest achievement remains the family they’ve built together—one laugh, one moment, one decade at a time.