WVUE Fox 8: The Evolution of New Orleans Television
WVUE-DT, widely known as Fox 8, stands as a cornerstone of broadcasting in New Orleans, Louisiana. From its early days as a pioneer in the local market to its current status as a news powerhouse, the station has navigated decades of technological shifts and ownership changes to remain a primary source of information for the Gulf Coast region.
Operating from its studios on Howard Avenue, the station serves as the Fox affiliate for the New Orleans market, blending high-energy network programming with the most extensive local news output in the state of Louisiana.
Key Facts
- First Air Date: November 1, 1953.
- Current Owner: Gray Media.
- Primary Affiliation: Fox.
- News Leadership: Produces 57 hours of local news weekly, the highest in Louisiana.
- Digital Channel: 29 (Virtual Channel 8).
- Notable Partnership: Multi-year agreement to air New Orleans Pelicans games.
A History of Transition
Early Years and Network Shifts
The station first signed on the air on November 1, 1953, under the call sign WJMR-TV. Founded by the Supreme Broadcasting Co. and led by president Chester F. Owens, it was the second television station to launch in New Orleans. In its infancy, the station operated as a primary CBS affiliate while sharing ABC programming with WDSU-TV.
By 1957, the landscape shifted when WWL-TV entered the market and took over the CBS affiliation. This allowed WJMR to transition into a full-time ABC affiliate. The station's call signs were later changed to WVUE—with "Vue" being the French word for "view"—reflecting the cultural heritage of New Orleans.
The Move to Fox
After decades with ABC, WVUE made a pivotal change on January 1, 1996, by affiliating with the Fox network. This ended a 43-year relationship with ABC. This transition was part of a larger industry shift involving several stations under the Burnham Broadcasting Company.
News Excellence and Innovation
WVUE has distinguished itself through a relentless commitment to local journalism. Today, the station broadcasts 57 hours of locally produced news per week, including a unique 5:30 p.m. newscast. It is also the home of Investigate TV+, a national newsmagazine anchored by Lee Zurik and Tisha Powell.
Technological Milestones
The station has frequently led the market in technical adoption. On April 29, 2007, WVUE became the first station in New Orleans to broadcast local news in high definition (HD). By January 2010, it further upgraded its field video and weather systems to HD, ensuring viewers received the clearest possible imagery during critical weather events.
Strategic Partnerships
To enhance its reporting, WVUE entered a content partnership with The Times-Picayune and NOLA.com in 2012. This collaboration allows for shared investigative reports, breaking news analysis, and integrated weather forecasting across both television and digital print platforms.
Ownership and Modern Expansion
The station's ownership has evolved through several hands, including Gaylord Broadcasting and the Louisiana Media Company (led by Tom Benson). In 2017, Raycom Media purchased the station for $51.8 million, and following a merger in 2019, WVUE became part of Gray Media.
Looking toward the future, WVUE announced the purchase of a 37,000-square-foot building at 3900 Howard Avenue in December 2023. This facility is designed to be a state-of-the-art digital media center, timed for the broadcast of Super Bowl LIX in February 2025.
Technical Specifications and Programming
WVUE utilizes a multiplexed signal to provide various subchannels, expanding its reach beyond the main Fox network. A notable recent addition is the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network (GCSEN), which complements the station's new role as the television home for the New Orleans Pelicans.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Virtual Channel | 8 |
| Digital Channel | 29 (UHF) |
| Effective Radiated Power (ERP) | 850 kW |
| HAAT | 290 m (951 ft) |
| Main Affiliation | Fox |
| Subchannels | Bounce, Ion Mystery, Oxygen, Start TV, GCSEN |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the call sign WVUE mean?
The "Vue" in WVUE is derived from the French word for "view," paying homage to the linguistic history of New Orleans.
When did WVUE switch its affiliation to Fox?
WVUE officially became a Fox affiliate on January 1, 1996, after serving as an ABC affiliate for 43 years.
How much local news does Fox 8 produce?
The station produces 57 hours of local newscasts every week, which is the highest output of any television station in the New Orleans market and the state of Louisiana.
Where is the new WVUE media center located?
The station is moving to a new 37,000-square-foot facility located at 3900 Howard Avenue in New Orleans.
Does WVUE broadcast sports?
Yes, in addition to Fox network sports, WVUE has a multi-year agreement to air regionally-televised New Orleans Pelicans games and operates the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network.