Eric Paulsen, a prominent New Orleans broadcaster for WWL-TV, passed away yesterday at the age of 74 after battling cancer. A familiar presence for morning viewers, Paulsen dedicated over 40 years to anchoring at WWL-TV and was a significant figure in the city's media landscape. His work spanned five decades and earned him respect within the community he served. WDSU reported his passing yesterday afternoon.
Diagnosed in September with an aggressive form of cancer, Paulsen, who publicly announced his intention to fight the disease, stepped away from the anchor desk to focus on his health challenges. In a statement obtained by WWL-TV, during an earlier announcement about his diagnosis, Paulsen declared, "This is a fight I don’t welcome, but I’m ready for this battle." In addition to his professional reputation, Paulsen's warm on-air presence and friendly humor were defining aspects of his career. WWL-TV highlighted these qualities, which made him a favored morning fixture.
Paulsen's journalistic skills extended beyond light-hearted exchanges; he was recognized for his hard-hitting news coverage, especially during Hurricane Katrina. He took to the skies to capture aerial views of the devastation, which contributed to the WWL-TV staff receiving the George Foster Peabody Award, as reported by WGNO in their tribute to his life and work.
Remembered as a seamless storyteller, Paulsen's legacy is marked by interviews with luminaries such as Tennessee Williams and Fats Domino. Beyond his professional accolades, which include a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Press Club of New Orleans, Paulsen was deeply rooted in the city's very essence. Reflecting on his career, Eric Paulsen once told Tipitina's TV, "I’ve had such a wonderful ride here in New Orleans," WWL-TV reports.
He is survived by his wife Bethany, two sons, Jon and Emmet, a sister named Karen, and his brother Kim, as well as many colleagues and viewers whose mornings were enhanced by his presence. Bethany noted her husband's connection to the city and mentioned to WWL-TV how the support from fans and friends helped uplift him, affirming "the outpouring of love and support has truly been overwhelming." Memorial donations in honor of Eric Paulsen can be directed to Roots of Music and The Ella Project, per his family's wishes. Details of the funeral arrangements are yet to be released.
