Eric Paulsen, WWL anchor of 40+ years, dies after battle with cancer

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Eric Paulsen, WWL anchor of 40+ years, ***** after battle with *******

NEW ORLEANS (

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) — Eric Paulsen, the legendary WWL news anchor, ***** on Saturday following a battle with *******. He served the Greater New Orleans community for over 40 years.

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According to WWL, Paulsen announced that he had been recently diagnosed with a “fairly aggressive” form of ******* back on Sept. 18. He addressed viewers, saying, “I’m not a person who worries about a lot in life, and I’ve always been a fighter. This is a ****** I don’t welcome, but I’m ready for this battle.”

Paulsen began his career with WWL in 1977 where he quickly became the anchor of the station’s morning newscast. From that point on, he became a fixture of local television who is remembered for a playful and effortless on-air delivery that highlighted every cultural fixture of New Orleans.

Over the years, Paulsen had the opportunity to interview many noteworthy guests, including the likes of Tennessee Williams, Amanda Shaw, Harry Connick Jr., Fats Domino and many more.

Paulsen is also remembered for his actions in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, taking to the skies in a helicopter to be one of the first to cover aerial views the devastation throughout New Orleans. As a result, he, along with other members of WWL’s staff, received the George Foster Peabody Award.

He is survived by his wife, Bethany, his two sons, Jon and Emmet, his sister, Karen, his brother, Kim and his brother-in-law, Richard.

“I’ve had such a wonderful ride here in New Orleans,” said Paulsen, in a 2021 interview with Tipitina’s TV. “When I came here, I was young, 25 years old maybe, and my plan was to go to the network. But things changed, opportunities opened up here and I fell in love with the city and it’s just been a great ride.”

Tributes have begun to pour in from officials, honoring the legendary journalist.

The City of New Orleans mourns the loss of one of our most beloved and longest-tenured broadcasters, Eric Paulsen. On behalf of our citizens, we extend our deepest condolences to the Paulsen family, friends, colleagues and viewers.

Mr. Paulsen, who spent over 40 years on New Orleans television, passed away on Saturday.

“Eric Paulsen was more than just a news anchor, he was a fixture in our community and a beloved friend to many,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “His dedication to his craft and love for our great city were evident in every story he told. He will be deeply missed.”

Eric received love, gratitude, and respect from many throughout his career. He was recently recognized by his colleagues for his undeniable talent and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Press Club of New Orleans and was honored by the New Orleans City Council.

The City of New Orleans is forever grateful for all that Eric gave to our city. We will keep his family in our thoughts and pray that he rest in ****’s perfect peace.

City of New Orleans

“It is devastating to learn of the passing of Eric Paulsen. He was a dedicated journalist and anchor for WWL-TV covering the city’s historic and major events along with interviewing key figures in New Orleans. As a former reporter, I had so much respect for his level of calmness in times of crisis and his keen interviewing skills. As an elected leader, I knew that Eric would always be up on the issues and that he would press for answers. The City Council and many other organizations through the years have honored his long-lasting career, but what deserves the most recognition is his love and care for his family, friends, and community. I talked to Eric soon after his diagnosis; I did not realize that it would be our last conversation. I will always treasure his friendship, guidance, and fantastic sense of humor. Keeping him and his family in my prayers.”

Council President Helena Moreno

Memorial donations can be made to

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, at 1020 N. Prieur St., New Orleans, or

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, at 400 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans. ******** arrangements have not yet been announced.

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#Eric #Paulsen #WWL #anchor #years #***** #battle #*******

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