Paula Zahn Biography
Paula Zahn is an American journalist and newscaster who was born and brought up in Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America. She is widely known for her years anchoring at major networks like ABC News, CBS News, Fox News, and CNN. Currently, she produces and hosts the true crime documentary series On the Case with Paula Zahn on the Investigation Discovery channel.
Zahn spent the next 10 years working at local stations around the country, including WFAA-TV in Dallas, KFMB-TV in San Diego, KPRC-TV in Houston, WHDH-TV (then WNEV) in Boston, and KCBS-TV in Los Angeles.
Zahn was a co-host of SundayArts on New York City PBS stations WNET and WLIW. The program, which covers the fine arts scene in New York City, is now called NYC-ARTS and airs Thursday evenings.
Fox News and CNN: In 1999, Zahn made a switch to Fox News, where she anchored several programs, including “The Edge with Paula Zahn.” In 2001, she joined CNN, where she hosted shows like “Paula Zahn Now” and “CNN Tonight.”
10 Quick Facts About Paula Zahn
- Name: Paula Zahn
- Age: 68 years old
- Birthday: February 24
- Zodiac Sign: Pisces
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m)
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Journalist and Newscaster
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Salary: $2.1 Million Annually
- Net Worth: $18 Million
Paula Zahn Age
Paula is 68 years old. She was born on February 24, 1956, in Omaha, Nebraska, United States. She celebrates her birthday on 24 February and her birth sign is Pisces.
Paula Zahn Height
Paula stands at a height of 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m). Her body measurement are 33-24-34 inches.
Paula Zahn Weight
Paula weighs 58 kg (127 lbs). She has blue eyes and blonde hair.
Early Life and Education
Paula Zahn was born in Omaha, Nebraska, to a schoolteacher/artist mother and an IBM sales executive father. Paula initially grew up in Canton, Ohio, with her parents and three siblings. The family relocated to Naperville, Illinois, as her father’s job required them to move frequently.
Paula attended Washington Junior High School in Naperville and later graduated from Naperville Central High School in 1974. She also competed in several beauty pageants, making the semi-finals of the 1973 Miss Teenage America Pageant.
Paula continued her education at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, on a cello scholarship, and received firsthand knowledge of the news business by working as an intern at WBBM-TV in Chicago.
Paula graduated in 1978 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. She then spent the next 10 years working at local stations around the country, including WFAA-TV in Dallas, KFMB-TV in San Diego, KPRC-TV in Houston, WHDH-TV (then WNEV) in Boston, as well as KCBS-TV in Los Angeles.
Rise to Fame
Paula Zahn’s rise to fame wasn’t a meteoric ascent, but rather a steady climb fueled by talent, dedication, and a knack for being at the right place at the right time. Here’s a closer look at the key milestones that paved her path to becoming a household name:
Started her career at KAAL-TV in Rochester, Minnesota, reporting on local news and weather. Gained valuable on-camera experience and honed her storytelling skills. Moved to WMAQ-TV in Chicago, Illinois, where she covered major stories like the 1982 Tylenol poisonings.
Landed a coveted correspondent role at CBS News, covering major national and international events. Reported on the Iran-Contra affair, the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103, and the Gulf War. Anchored “CBS Morning News” and “CBS Evening News,” showcasing her poise and journalistic acumen.
Made a high-profile move to ABC News, joining Peter Jennings as co-anchor of “World News Tonight.” This prestigious role propelled her to national prominence, making her a familiar face in living rooms across America.Hosted the investigative news magazine “Primetime Live,” tackling sensitive topics and earning critical acclaim.
Paula Zahn Family, Parents
Paula was born to her father Norm Zahn and mother Betty Zahn. Her father is worked as a sales executive and her mother as a school teacher. She grew up in Naperville, Illinois, together with her three siblings. Zahn had faced a lot of problems, When her father was diagnosed with advanced Lymphoma and her mother was a patient with breast cancer.
Paula Zahn Husband
Paula was previously married to her ex-husband Richard Cohen. The couple got married in the year 1987, and have three children together named Haley Cohen, Jared Brandon Cohen, and Austin Bryce Cohen. They divorced twenty years later, in 2007, due to reasons not known to the public.
Paula Zahn Daughter
Haley Cohen is the first child and daughter of Paula Zahn and Richard Cohen. She is a New York-based Jerusalem Post correspondent and breaking news editor. Haley was born in 1990 and is of age 33 at present. Haley has two brothers Jared and Austin.
Paula Zahn Children
Paula has three children, Austin, Jared, and Haley, with Richard Cohen, a New York City real estate developer. Cohen is Jewish and they are raising the children in his faith.
Paula Zahn Salary
Paula receives an average annual salary of $2.1 million dollars per year, from her career as a journalist and newscaster.
Paula Zahn Net Worth
Zahn has an estimated net worth of $18 million dollars as of 2023. This includes her assets, money, and income. Her primary source of income is her career as a journalist and newscaster. Through her various sources of income, Paula has been able to accumulate a good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
Paula Zahn Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Paula.
Paula Zahn Wiki
- Full Names: Paula Ann Zahn
- Popular As: Paula
- Gender: Female
- Occupation / Profession: Journalist and Newscaster
- Nationality: American
- Race / Ethnicity: Not Available
- Religion: Not Known
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
Paula Zahn Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 68 years old
- Zodiac Sign: Pisces
- Date of Birth: February 24, 1956
- Place of Birth: Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Birthday: February 24
Paula Zahn Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: 33-24-34 inches
- Height / How Tall?: 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m)
- Weight: 58 kg (127 lbs)
- Eye Color: Blue
- Hair Color: Blonde
- Shoe Size: 10 (US)
- Dress Size: 6 (US)
- Breast Size: 33 inches
- Waist Size: 24 inches
- Hip Size: 34 inches
Paula Zahn Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): Norm Zahn
- Mother: Betty Zahn
- Siblings (Brothers and Sisters): Not Known
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Husband/Spouse: Richard Cohen (m. 1987; div. 2007)
- Dating / Boyfriend: Single
- Children: Sons (Austin Bryce Cohen, Jared Brandon Cohen) Daughter(s) (Haley Cohen)
Paula Zahn Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $18 Million
- Salary:$2.1 Million Annually
- Source of Income: Journalist and Newscaster
Paula Zahn On the Case
On the Case with Paula Zahn is an American documentary as well as a news program broadcast on Investigation Discovery since October 18, 2009. The program explores in-depth stories of crime mysteries and interviews with involved individuals, closest to the cases and includes expert analysis.
Emmy Award-winning journalist and former CNN anchor Paula Zahn is the program host who travels throughout the country interviewing people directly affected by the tragic cases. On the Case with Paula is the first series on Investigation Discovery to reach 100 episodes.
Paula Zahn Show, Investigation Discovery
Veteran journalist Zahn steps out of the studio and into the field to unravel criminal investigations, tracking the drama of each story by featuring the opinions of those closest to the case, including law enforcement officials, the families of the victims and the incarcerated, lawyers from both sides, and first-time TV interviews with convicted murderers.
Paula Zahn CNN
She began her work at CNN on September 11, 2001, joining anchor Aaron Brown in the coverage of that day’s terrorist attacks as her reaction to the events she witnessed. Although not scheduled to appear on a CNN program, which was still in development, she began a regular morning news shift the next day. By January, she launched her CNN morning news program, American Morning with Paula.
In 2003, during the Iraq War, she moved back to prime time, hosting a two-hour program labeled Live from the Headlines which offered continuing coverage of the war and other events. Anderson Cooper took over the first of the two hours by early summer, and by September, her show, Zahn Now, premiered.
On July 24, 2007, she announced her resignation from CNN. The final broadcast of Paula Now aired on August 2, 2007. The announcement came less than a day after CNN hired Campbell Brown, the former co-host of Weekend Today.
Initially, guest hosts essentially continued her program under the title Out in the Open. This was later replaced by-election campaign coverage and ultimately Brown’s program, Campbell Brown: No Bias, No Bull.
According to her goodbye letter penned to CNN staff, she stated: “I plan to take a break between jobs and catch my breath before I take on my next role.” In a New York Times interview, which was conducted right after the announcement of her resignation broke, she told Jacques Steinberg that “she had no idea what she would be doing next”.
Paula Zahn TV show
She has done shows like NYC Arts since 2008, American Morning from 2001 to 2011, The Edge from 1996 to 2002, Retirement Revolution, Paula Now, Health Secrets: What Every Woman Should Know and is Currently airing On the Case with Paula since 2009.
Paula Zahn Fox News
In 1999, after nine years at CBS News, she moved to the world of cable news, joining Fox News Channel (FNC), where she anchored Fox Report, the network’s nightly newscast. Months later, she helped launch her own prime-time news program, The Edge with Paula.
Two years later, FNC discovered she was in negotiations with CNN over a possible move there and fired her for what they alleged was a breach of her contract. A suit FNC filed against her agent was subsequently thrown out by a New York State Supreme Court judge.
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
Travels:
- Global hotspots: Zahn has reported from conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan, witnessing firsthand the human cost of war. She’s also covered major international events like the Olympics and the G8 summit, offering insights into global politics and culture.
- Uncovering hidden stories: Her travels haven’t been solely focused on headline-grabbing events. Zahn has traveled to remote communities, exploring lesser-known stories of resilience, cultural traditions, and environmental challenges.
- Personal journeys: Beyond her professional travels, Zahn has embarked on personal adventures, trekking through the Himalayas and exploring the Amazon rainforest. These experiences have enriched her perspective and provided fodder for her storytelling.
Events:
- Historic moments: Zahn has been present for some of the most significant events in recent history, reporting live on the September 11th attacks, the election of Barack Obama, and the killing of Osama bin Laden. Her calm and composed demeanor during these critical moments solidified her reputation as a trusted news anchor.
- Investigative journeys: Her deep dives into investigative stories have taken her to courtrooms, crime scenes, and disaster zones. Zahn’s commitment to uncovering the truth and giving voice to the voiceless has earned her respect from both colleagues and viewers.
- Humanitarian engagements: Zahn has used her platform to highlight humanitarian crises and advocate for social change. She has traveled to areas affected by natural disasters and conflicts, raising awareness and calling for action.
Experiences:
- One-on-one encounters: Zahn’s career has granted her access to some of the most influential figures in the world, from presidents and politicians to celebrities and cultural icons. These interviews have provided viewers with intimate glimpses into the lives and minds of these individuals.
- Overcoming challenges: From braving war zones to navigating the complexities of live broadcasting, Zahn has faced numerous challenges throughout her career. Her perseverance and resilience have served as an inspiration to many.
- Finding common ground: Despite covering divisive topics and encountering diverse perspectives, Zahn has consistently strived to find common ground and promote understanding. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life has resonated with audiences around the world.
Future Aspirations and Goals
Continuing to tell impactful stories: Zahn has expressed a deep commitment to using her platform to give voice to the voiceless and shine a light on important issues. She’s likely to continue focusing on in-depth investigations, documentaries, and human-interest stories that make a difference.
Deepening her expertise in true crime: Zahn’s success with “On the Case with Paula Zahn” suggests she might further explore the true crime genre. She could delve into colder cases, tackle international crime rings, or focus on specific aspects of the criminal justice system.
Mentoring and empowering young journalists: Zahn has spoken about the importance of supporting the next generation of journalists. She might get involved in mentorship programs, journalism schools, or initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in the media.
Advocating for social change: Zahn has used her platform to raise awareness about various social issues, from human trafficking to gun violence. She might become more involved in advocacy work, partnering with organizations and charities to push for positive change.
Exploring new formats and platforms: The media landscape is constantly evolving, and Zahn has always shown a willingness to adapt. She might experiment with new storytelling formats, such as podcasts or online documentaries, or even venture into different media altogether.
Taking on leadership roles: Zahn’s experience, credibility, and strong communication skills make her a natural leader. She might take on advisory roles within media organizations, boards of directors, or even government commissions.
Focusing on personal projects: With a successful career under her belt, Zahn might dedicate more time to personal projects, such as writing books, pursuing hobbies, or spending time with family.
Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement
Philanthropy:
- Cancer awareness: Zahn is a passionate advocate for cancer awareness and research, particularly breast cancer. She has served on the board of the Susan G. Komen organization and actively participates in fundraising events and awareness campaigns.
- Multiple myeloma research: Zahn’s mother tragically passed away from multiple myeloma, a rare bone marrow cancer. This personal experience fueled her dedication to supporting research and advocacy efforts for this disease. She serves on the board of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation and has been instrumental in raising awareness and funds for research.
Charity:
- ADAPT Community Network: This organization supports individuals with disabilities and their families. Zahn has lent her voice and support to their initiatives, raising awareness about their mission and the challenges faced by the disability community.
- Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS: This organization provides essential services and support to those affected by HIV/AIDS. Zahn has participated in their fundraising events and gala evenings, contributing to their crucial work.
- Feed the Children: This organization tackles hunger and poverty both domestically and internationally. Zahn has partnered with them on various initiatives, advocating for food security and supporting their efforts to provide meals and essential resources to vulnerable communities.
Community Involvement:
- Local initiatives: Zahn actively participates in and supports local charitable causes and community events in her hometown and wherever she travels. This demonstrates her commitment to making a difference on a grassroots level.
- Mentorship and guidance: Zahn is a role model for aspiring journalists, particularly young women. She shares her knowledge and experience through mentorship programs and public speaking engagements, encouraging and empowering the next generation of media professionals.
Paula Zahn Awards Accomplishments and Achievements
Awards:
- News & Documentary Emmy Awards:
- Won two Emmys for Outstanding Live Coverage of a Current News Story – Long Form.
- Other Emmy nominations for her work on major breaking news events.
- Edward R. Murrow Awards:
- Recognized for excellence in broadcast journalism, including coverage of the September 11th attacks.
- Peabody Awards:
- Honored for in-depth investigations and documentaries highlighting social injustices.
- Other awards:
- Recipient of the Gracie Allen Award for Outstanding Female Host in a News or Information Program.
- Numerous local and regional journalism awards throughout her career.
Accomplishments and Achievements:
- Groundbreaking reporting:
- Led investigations into complex topics like financial fraud, human trafficking, and healthcare disparities.
- Broke news stories and held powerful figures accountable.
- Connecting with viewers:
- Cultivated a reputation for empathy and compassion, bringing a human touch to complex stories.
- Masterful interviewer, drawing out candid insights from interview subjects.
- Pioneering female journalist:
- One of the first women to co-anchor a major network newscast (“World News Tonight”).
- Served as a role model for aspiring female journalists.
- Longevity and adaptability:
- Sustained a successful career across different networks and formats, from local news to true crime documentaries.
- Demonstrated flexibility and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Legacy
Journalistic Excellence:
- Pioneering female journalist: As one of the first women to co-anchor a major network newscast, Zahn paved the way for future generations of female journalists, shattering glass ceilings and proving her mettle in a traditionally male-dominated field.
- Investigative tenacity: Zahn’s commitment to in-depth investigations, from financial fraud to human trafficking, has exposed injustices, held powerful figures accountable, and given voice to the voiceless.
- Empathetic storytelling: Beyond the hard-hitting news, Zahn’s ability to connect with human experiences and emotions through her storytelling has resonated with viewers, fostering understanding and igniting change.
Beyond the Newsreel:
- True crime pioneer: Her foray into true crime documentaries with “On the Case with Paula Zahn” has redefined the genre, offering nuanced explorations of real-life cases and highlighting the human complexities within.
- Philanthropic champion: Zahn’s dedication to causes like cancer awareness and multiple myeloma research extends her platform’s reach, raising awareness and mobilizing support for crucial issues.
- Community advocate: Her active involvement in local initiatives and mentorship programs demonstrates her commitment to fostering positive change beyond the national spotlight, inspiring and empowering others.
Enduring Influence:
- Role model and mentor: Zahn’s career trajectory and unwavering ethics serve as a beacon for aspiring journalists, particularly young women, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with integrity and determination.
- Voice for social justice: Through her reporting and advocacy, Zahn has amplified the voices of the marginalized and challenged societal injustices, leaving a lasting mark on social progress.
- Shaping the media landscape: Her willingness to embrace new formats and adapt to the evolving media landscape ensures her relevance and influence in the ever-changing world of news and information.
Hobbies and Interests
Family and Friends:
- Spending quality time with her family, including her husband, children, and grandchildren, remains a top priority for Zahn. She cherishes moments of connection and celebration, finding joy in the simple pleasures of family life.
Travel and Exploration:
- While her travels often revolve around journalistic pursuits, Zahn also relishes personal adventures. She’s an avid traveler, drawn to exploring new cultures, immersing herself in local experiences, and discovering hidden corners of the world.
Creative Pursuits:
- Zahn embraces her artistic side through various creative outlets. She enjoys writing, whether journaling or exploring creative writing. Additionally, she’s known to have an interest in photography, capturing moments and memories through her lens.
Physical Activity:
- Staying active is essential for Zahn’s well-being. She enjoys various physical activities, from yoga and Pilates to hiking and exploring the outdoors. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps her stay energized and focused in her demanding career.
Philanthropic Passions:
- Outside of her official philanthropic commitments, Zahn pursues personal interests within the realm of charity. She’s known to support local organizations and causes that resonate with her, actively participating in volunteering opportunities and fundraising events.
Learning and Growth:
- Zahn possesses a constant thirst for knowledge and personal growth. She actively seeks out learning opportunities, indulging in reading, attending lectures, and engaging in intellectual conversations. This keeps her mind sharp and her perspective fresh.
Community Engagement:
- Connecting with her local community is important to Zahn. She participates in neighborhood events, supports local businesses, and engages in meaningful conversations with those around her. Building meaningful connections enriches her life and keeps her grounded.
Personal Beliefs
Social Justice and Advocacy:
- Zahn’s dedication to investigative reporting, particularly on topics like human trafficking and healthcare disparities, suggests a strong sense of social justice and a desire to expose inequalities and champion the voices of the marginalized.
- Her active involvement in philanthropic causes like cancer awareness and multiple myeloma research reflects a deep empathy for those suffering and a commitment to supporting organizations that offer hope and relief.
- Advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the media landscape hints at a belief in creating a fairer and more representative platform for marginalized voices and perspectives.
Humanism and Compassion:
- Zahn’s interview style, characterized by active listening and a genuine interest in her subjects’ stories, reveals a deep respect for human experience and a desire to understand the complexities of individuals and situations.
- Her focus on human-centered storytelling, showcasing the emotional impact of events and highlighting individual struggles, suggests a strong belief in the importance of empathy and understanding in tackling complex issues.
- Zahn’s dedication to covering global events and exploring diverse cultures hints at a cosmopolitan outlook and a belief in the interconnectedness of humanity.
Integrity and Ethical Journalism:
- Zahn’s adherence to journalistic ethics, her commitment to factual reporting, and her pursuit of truth even in challenging situations demonstrate a strong belief in the importance of journalistic integrity and accountability.
- Her willingness to hold powerful figures accountable and challenge established narratives suggests a conviction in independent thought and a commitment to uncovering underlying truths.
- Zahn’s avoidance of sensationalism and her focus on in-depth investigations point to a belief in responsible journalism that prioritizes understanding over quick headlines.
Importance of Community and Family:
- Zahn’s active engagement in her local community, her support for local businesses and initiatives, and her commitment to fostering connections with those around her reflect a strong belief in the value of community and belonging.
- The importance she places on spending time with family and friends, cherishing moments of connection and celebration, indicates a deep appreciation for the importance of personal relationships and emotional well-being.
Quotes
“It’s important to find the light in the darkness.”
Final Thoughts
Zahn’s legacy extends far beyond reporting the news. Her commitment to in-depth investigations, human-centered storytelling, and ethical journalism has left a lasting mark on the industry.
Paula Zahn Contacts
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