Eric Paulsen, the revered WWL-TV reporter and anchor who served the New Orleans community for nearly five decades, passed away on Saturday at the age of 74 after a courageous battle with cancer. Known as a fixture of the top-rated morning newscast, Paulsen’s impact on both television journalism and the local culture is immeasurable. In this article, we will explore his life, career, and the loving bond he shared with his wife, Bethany Paulsen.
A Legacy of Dedication
Throughout his 47-year career at WWL-TV, Eric Paulsen became synonymous with morning news in New Orleans. He disclosed his cancer diagnosis in September, shortly after receiving the Press Club of New Orleans’ Lifetime Achievement Award. Paulsen’s attitude towards his illness was nothing short of inspiring. In an open letter, he expressed his readiness to battle cancer and acknowledged the immense support from family and friends. Sadly, he did not return to the station he had called home for almost half a century.
A Colleague’s Heartfelt Tribute
Sally-Ann Roberts, Paulsen’s longtime co-anchor, reflected on their years together, saying, “I can’t imagine New Orleans without Eric Paulsen.” She emphasized how deeply he embraced the city and its culture, stating that he “is naturally New Orleans.” His colleagues recognized his unique ability to balance lightheartedness with gravitas, making him a cherished figure in the newsroom.
Dominic Massa, a former executive producer at WWL-TV, noted that Paulsen’s versatility allowed him to engage with diverse topics and guests seamlessly. He observed, “He made it look easy, but I knew he could talk about so many different things, and that’s the life of morning TV. It came naturally to him.”
Embracing New Orleans
Originally from St. Louis, Eric Paulsen relocated to New Orleans after working in radio and television in various states, including Illinois, Iowa, Georgia, and Wisconsin. He quickly developed a deep connection with the local culture, forming friendships with music legends like Fats Domino and Irma Thomas. His passion for the city was reflected in the diverse range of guests and stories he brought to the airwaves.
Paulsen was not only a talented journalist but also a devoted family man. Alongside his wife Bethany, he created a vibrant household filled with love and even a collection of pets that included chickens, tortoises, a parrot, and a cat. Their shared life was a testament to the warmth and joy that defined their relationship.
A Community Icon
Eric Paulsen’s dedication to the community was evident in his willingness to support local events and initiatives. As Roberts remarked, “Whenever anyone needed anything—an MC, an auctioneer—Eric was there for the community.” His commitment extended beyond the newsroom, making him a beloved figure in New Orleans.
Paulsen’s work during significant events, like Hurricane Isaac, demonstrated his professionalism and resilience. Angela Hill, a fellow anchor, recalled their long hours on air, providing vital information to anxious viewers. “I could not have done that without Eric,” she shared, highlighting his support and teamwork during critical times.
The Journey of a Newsman
Before becoming a prominent TV personality, Paulsen earned his journalism degree from Southern Illinois University. His early career began as a disc jockey in Illinois and Iowa before transitioning to television. After joining WWL-TV as a weekend reporter in 1977, he quickly rose to prominence, co-anchoring programs like “PM Magazine” and eventually taking on the morning shift.
His exceptional interviewing skills made him a favorite among guests. Sally-Ann Roberts noted that Paulsen had an innate ability to put people at ease, allowing them to shine during interviews. He was a consummate professional who excelled in both light-hearted segments and serious news coverage.
The Family Man Behind the Anchor
Eric’s professional accomplishments were mirrored by his deep love for his family. He and Bethany Paulsen raised three children, nurturing a home filled with laughter and joy. Even though he was committed to his career, Eric always prioritized family time and instilled a sense of adventure and exploration in his children.
His wife, Bethany, reflected on how New Orleans embraced him, transforming what was meant to be a temporary move into a lifelong commitment. “When he came here, he wasn’t planning on staying,” she said. “New Orleans embraced him, and he really embraced it back. This has become his home.”
The Impact of Eric Paulsen
Eric Paulsen’s passing left a profound void in the New Orleans community. He was celebrated not only for his contributions to journalism but also for his kindness and generosity. He became a beloved figure who embodied the spirit of New Orleans—vibrant, resilient, and deeply connected to the people around him.
As he fought his illness, the outpouring of love and support from the community underscored his importance. His wife shared how he spent his final days connecting with friends and colleagues, receiving an overwhelming number of messages from those who loved and respected him.
Conclusion
Eric Paulsen’s legacy will live on through his family, friends, and the countless viewers he touched throughout his remarkable career. As a devoted husband to Bethany and a father to his children, he exemplified the qualities of love, dedication, and service to his community. His unique ability to connect with others and his commitment to storytelling have left an indelible mark on New Orleans television.
In the words of his colleagues, “There never has been and there never will be another Eric Paulsen.” He will be remembered not just as an anchor but as a cherished friend, a loving husband, and a passionate advocate for the vibrant culture of New Orleans.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Eric Paulsen?
Eric Paulsen was a prominent WWL-TV reporter and anchor who served the New Orleans community for 47 years. He was known for his engaging personality and dedication to journalism.
2. What illness did Eric Paulsen battle?
Eric Paulsen battled cancer, which he disclosed publicly in September shortly before his passing.
3. How did Eric Paulsen contribute to his community?
Paulsen was actively involved in local events, often serving as an MC or auctioneer, and supported various community initiatives throughout his career.
4. What was Eric Paulsen’s impact on New Orleans television?
Eric Paulsen was a beloved figure in New Orleans television, known for his ability to connect with guests and viewers alike. He brought a unique blend of warmth, professionalism, and humor to morning news.
5. What did Eric Paulsen’s colleagues say about him?
Colleagues described him as a “news guy’s news guy” who was capable of handling both lighthearted segments and serious news with ease. His longtime co-anchor, Sally-Ann Roberts, praised him for being “naturally New Orleans.”