Eric Paulsen Obituary, Death – The voice and face of New Orleans morning television for nearly five decades, died on Saturday at Ochsner Medical Center after a brief battle with cancer. Paulsen, 74, was an iconic anchor at WWL-TV, the CBS affiliate where he spent 47 years reporting, guiding, and informing the New Orleans community with a blend of warmth, humor, and integrity.
For generations of viewers, Paulsen was more than a news anchor; he was a steady presence through the city’s highs and lows, from Hurricanes Katrina and Ida to countless Mardi Gras parades, elections, and Saints victories. Paulsen’s career at WWL-TV began in 1977, and over the decades, he became a fixture on the top-rated morning newscast, a position he held for much of his tenure. He is believed to be the longest-serving anchor in the region, a testament to his dedication, skill, and rapport with the people of New Orleans.
Last September, Paulsen announced that he was stepping away from his anchoring duties to begin treatment for cancer. His diagnosis came just weeks after he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Press Club of New Orleans and received a special recognition from the New Orleans City Council. In an open letter to viewers, he shared his determination to face his illness head-on, writing, “I’ve always been a fighter. This is a fight I don’t welcome, but I’m ready for this battle. My attitude is very positive, and I have a lot of support from family and friends, which means I will see you all soon.”
Throughout his career, Paulsen was known not only for his journalistic acumen but also for his ability to connect with viewers on a personal level. Friends and colleagues alike recall his sense of humor, his compassion, and his knack for making every story feel like it was being told by a friend. Karen Swensen, a longtime WWL-TV colleague, remembered Paulsen’s ability to lift spirits in the newsroom, especially during difficult coverage. “Eric could find the humor and humanity in any situation,” she said. “He brought a special touch to every broadcast, every story, and every person he worked with. He was our anchor in every sense of the word.”
Paulsen’s journey into journalism was somewhat unorthodox, but his passion for storytelling quickly established him as a beloved figure. Over the years, he covered everything from local school events to breaking news stories with the same dedication and respect for his audience. His coverage of Hurricane Katrina remains among his most memorable work, as he provided crucial information and reassurance to the city’s residents during one of its darkest hours.
Tributes have poured in from across the city, from viewers, colleagues, and city leaders alike, all mourning the loss of a man who became a trusted friend to so many. Mayor LaToya Cantrell spoke of Paulsen’s legacy, saying, “Eric Paulsen was more than a journalist. He was New Orleans’ own. Through thick and thin, he was there, showing up for this city in ways that few others could. His memory will live on in the hearts of all of us who watched him, trusted him, and looked to him for guidance.”
In addition to his journalistic accomplishments, Paulsen was known for his commitment to his community. He regularly volunteered with local charities and was an advocate for New Orleans youth programs. Many recall his mentorship of young journalists, whom he guided with a patience and kindness that endeared him to a new generation of storytellers.
Paulsen’s passing leaves a void in New Orleans’ media landscape that may never be fully filled. His dedication to his craft and his deep love for the city were evident in every broadcast, and his resilience in the face of cancer showed his fighting spirit one last time. “He wanted to be back in the studio, doing what he loved,” Swensen shared. “Even in his last months, he spoke of his return to work with optimism.”
Eric Paulsen’s legacy will be remembered by his colleagues, his viewers, and the city he loved. He is survived by his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched through his decades of service.
