The question of "is Brooke Burns married" is a popular one for fans who have followed her career from the sunny beaches of *Baywatch* to the high-stakes set of *The Chase*. As of today, December 9, 2025, the Emmy-nominated actress and game show host is indeed happily married, having found lasting love with a prominent figure in the film industry. Her journey to a stable family life has been a public one, involving a previous high-profile marriage and even an engagement to a Hollywood icon, making her current relationship a subject of great curiosity among her dedicated fanbase.

The current information confirms that Brooke Burns is married to film director Gavin O'Connor, a relationship that began over a decade ago and has resulted in a beautiful, blended family. This article will provide a deep dive into her current family life, her complete career trajectory, and the details of her life with her husband and two daughters, offering a fresh, unique, and comprehensive look at the star's personal world.

Brooke Burns: Complete Biography, Career Highlights, and Filmography

Brooke Elizabeth Burns has built a multifaceted career that spans modeling, acting in major television hits, and hosting some of the most popular game shows on television. Her professional journey is marked by versatility and resilience, cementing her status as a recognizable television personality.

  • Full Name: Brooke Elizabeth Burns
  • Born: March 16, 1978
  • Birthplace: Dallas, Texas
  • Age: 47 (as of late 2025)
  • Occupation: Actress, Fashion Model, Game Show Host, Television Personality
  • Marital Status: Married
  • Current Spouse: Gavin O'Connor (m. 2013)
  • Ex-Spouse: Julian McMahon (m. 1999–2001)
  • Children: Two daughters—Madison Elizabeth McMahon (b. 2000) and Declan (b. 2017)
  • Notable Acting Roles: Jessie Owens on *Baywatch* (1998–2001), Jennifer on *Ally McBeal*, and the lead in several Hallmark Channel movies.
  • Notable Hosting Roles: *The Chase* (Emmy-nominated), *Dog Eat Dog*, *Hole in the Wall*, *You Deserve It*, and *Hair Battle Spectacular*.

The Baywatch Breakout and Her Early Career Trajectory

Burns began her career as a fashion model before transitioning to television. Her breakout role came in 1998 when she joined the cast of *Baywatch* as the character Jessie Owens, a role that brought her international recognition.

Following her time in the iconic red swimsuit, she secured a recurring role in the critically acclaimed series *Ally McBeal* as Jennifer, the law firm's head-turning mail girl. Her early career also included a stint on *Melrose Place*.

Brooke Burns’ Current Marital Status: A Decade of Marriage to Gavin O'Connor

For those searching for the most current information, the answer is a resounding yes: Brooke Burns is married. She tied the knot with acclaimed film director and screenwriter Gavin O'Connor in 2013.

The couple’s wedding was an intimate affair, marking the start of a stable, long-term partnership. O'Connor is well-known in Hollywood for directing critically successful films such as *Warrior*, *Miracle*, and *The Accountant*.

Their relationship is often kept private, though Burns occasionally makes public appearances to support her husband at film premieres and industry events. The stability of this marriage contrasts with some of her earlier, more publicized relationships, offering a clear picture of her current personal happiness.

A Blended Family: Daughters Madison and Declan

Brooke Burns is a mother of two daughters, who are 17 years apart, creating a unique family dynamic.

  • Madison Elizabeth McMahon: Born in June 2000, Madison is Burns' daughter from her first marriage to Australian actor Julian McMahon, known for his roles in *Nip/Tuck* and *Charmed*. Burns and McMahon were married from 1999 to 2001, but they have maintained an amicable co-parenting relationship for Madison.
  • Declan O'Connor: In 2017, Burns and Gavin O'Connor welcomed their daughter, Declan. The arrival of Declan, 17 years after her first child, was a joyful event that completed their family. Burns has spoken about the unique experience of raising children in two vastly different life stages.

The family resides in Los Angeles, where Burns balances her demanding career with her role as a wife and mother.

From Baywatch to The Chase: Brooke Burns’ Evolution as a Television Personality

While many fans first encountered Brooke Burns as a drama star, a significant portion of her career has been dedicated to hosting game shows, a role that showcased her sharp wit and engaging personality. This shift highlights her versatility and has earned her an Emmy Award® nomination.

The Reign of The Chase and Other Hosting Gigs

Brooke Burns is perhaps best known to a modern audience as the host of the GSN speed trivia game show, *The Chase*. Her work on the series was highly praised, leading to an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Game Show Host.

Her hosting resume is extensive and includes:

  • *Dog Eat Dog* (NBC)
  • *Hole in the Wall* (Fox)
  • *You Deserve It* (ABC)
  • *Hair Battle Spectacular* (Oxygen)
  • A revival of *Tic-Tac-Dough* (Game Show Network)

These roles have established her as one of the most recognizable and successful game show hosts in recent television history, a key part of her professional identity beyond her acting roles.

The Hallmark Channel Star

In addition to her hosting duties, Brooke Burns has become a staple on the Hallmark Channel, starring in numerous popular made-for-TV movies. These roles, often holiday-themed or cozy mysteries, have allowed her to connect with a loyal audience.

Key Hallmark movies featuring Burns include:

  • *The Most Wonderful Time of the Year* (2008), where she starred alongside Henry Winkler.
  • *Christmas Connection* (2017), co-starring Tom Everett Scott.
  • *Undercover Bridesmaid*
  • *Roux the Day: A Gourmet Detective Mystery*

These projects showcase her enduring appeal as an actress and her ability to anchor a successful franchise. From the adrenaline-fueled drama of *Baywatch* to the heartwarming narratives of the Hallmark Channel and the mental gymnastics of *The Chase*, Brooke Burns’ career is a testament to her enduring presence in the entertainment world. Her current life, married to Gavin O'Connor and raising two daughters, provides a solid foundation for her continued professional success.