Margaret Orr – Retired Chief Meteorologist | WDSU New Orleans
Margaret Orr Biography
Margaret Orr is a retired American meteorologist and beloved broadcast personality best known for her decades-long career at WDSU News in New Orleans, Louisiana. She joined WDSU in 1979 as a general assignment reporter and rose through the ranks to become chief meteorologist in 2009, officially retiring in 2024 after 45 years of dedicated service.
With her trademark warmth, meteorological expertise, and unmistakable New Orleans charm, Margaret became a comforting presence in the lives of thousands, guiding Southeast Louisiana through more than 30 hurricanes—including Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Ida. Her steady voice and community-first approach made her one of the most trusted and cherished figures in local news.
Margaret Orr Young
In her early years, Margaret Orr attended Louise S. McGehee School in New Orleans and went on to study at Louisiana State University. As a young journalist starting at WDSU in 1979, she first covered general news before shifting to meteorology, where she found her true calling. Even in her youth, Margaret’s charisma and dedication to public service were evident—traits that only grew stronger throughout her legendary career.
Education
Margaret graduated from Louise S. McGehee High School and went on to attend Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. She later completed the Broadcast Meteorology Program at Mississippi State University, solidifying her scientific credentials in the field of weather forecasting.
Margaret Orr Age and Birthday
How old is meteorologist Margaret Orr? As of 2025, Margaret Orr is approximately 70 years old. She was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, though her exact date of birth and birthday celebrations have not been made public.
Height and Physical Appearance
Margaret stands at an average height of 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 m) and maintains a healthy weight of around 58 kg. She is known for her signature red-brown hair, which became part of her recognizable on-air presence.
Family and Husband
Margaret is the daughter of Gladys Raby and R.S. Orr. She has always maintained close ties to her New Orleans roots and is a proud wife, mother, and grandmother. Margaret is married to her husband, Bill Settoon, and together they have three children: Kathleen, Alden, and Grace. The family also includes two grandchildren and resides in New Orleans.
One of Margaret’s most personal and inspiring stories involves her daughter Kathleen, a cancer survivor. Kathleen was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the age of 24, an experience that the family openly shared with viewers. Kathleen bravely underwent treatment and made a full recovery, becoming a symbol of strength and hope in the community.
How Old Is Margaret Orr’s Husband?
Margaret Orr is married to Bill Settoon, and while his exact age has not been publicly disclosed, it is estimated that he is in his early to mid-70s as of 2025, close in age to Margaret, who is 70 years old. The couple shares a long-standing marriage and a strong family life with three children and two grandchildren.
Margaret Orr Daughter
Margaret has a daughter named Kathleen, whose personal health journey became public when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the age of 24. Kathleen bravely fought the disease, undergoing treatment and emerging as a cancer survivor. Margaret and her family shared Kathleen’s story to raise awareness and inspire others facing similar battles. Kathleen is now healthy and continues to be a source of strength and pride for the family.
Margaret Orr Hair and Public Image
Margaret’s red-brown hair became so iconic that some viewers speculated it was a wig. In a January 2018 Facebook post, she clarified that her hair is completely natural and credited her hairstylist, Christina Michelle, for keeping it camera-ready. Margaret is also fondly remembered for donning a bright pink wig during Mardi Gras parades—blending weather forecasting with New Orleans flair.
Did Margaret Orr Retire?
Yes, Margaret Orr officially retired from her role as chief meteorologist at WDSU News in New Orleans in March 2024, marking the end of a remarkable 45-year career. She began at WDSU in 1979 as a general assignment reporter before transitioning to weather, eventually becoming chief meteorologist in 2009. Margaret guided viewers through over 30 major hurricanes, earning a reputation for her calm presence and community-first approach. Her final newscast aired on March 29, 2024.
Margaret Orr Retirement
Margaret Orr’s retirement in 2024 marked the end of an era in New Orleans broadcast meteorology. Known for her joyful personality, unmatched expertise, and signature pink wigs during Mardi Gras, she became a local icon. In her final years, she was recognized with major honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Louisiana Association of Broadcasters and a nod from the National Hurricane Conference. Her last on-air appearance was a heartfelt sendoff to decades of dedicated weather reporting and community service.
Where Is Margaret Orr?
Following her retirement, Margaret Orr continues to reside in her hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana, enjoying life with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Though no longer on air, she remains an admired public figure and is occasionally active on social media. Fans still follow her updates and appearances at community events, where she often supports local causes and celebrates the city she loves.
Does Margaret Orr Wear a Wig?
Despite frequent speculation from viewers over the years, Margaret Orr does not wear a wig. In fact, she addressed this rumor directly in a Facebook post on January 9, 2018, confirming that her hair is her own. She gave credit to her hairstylist, Christina Michelle, for maintaining her signature look. However, Margaret is known to sport bright, playful wigs—especially during Mardi Gras—as part of her festive parade coverage. These were part of the fun, not a disguise.
Margaret Orr Career Legacy at WDSU
Margaret began her WDSU career in 1979 as a general assignment reporter and transitioned into weather over the years. By 2009, she became the station’s chief meteorologist, a position she held with distinction until her retirement in March 2024.
Over the course of her career, Margaret received numerous honors, including:
Lifetime Achievement Award from the Louisiana Association of Broadcasters (2022)
Distinguished Service Award from the National Hurricane Conference
Named “Honorary Muse” by the all-female Krewe of Muses in 2024—a Mardi Gras honor highlighting her cultural impact
Her vibrant energy during Mardi Gras parade coverage, often wearing festive wigs and costumes, made her as synonymous with the season as beads and brass bands. Whether covering a hurricane or the Krewe of Zulu, Margaret always brought authenticity, enthusiasm, and a deep love for her city.
Margaret Orr Retirement and Final Sign-Off
Margaret delivered her final forecast on March 29, 2024, at 6 p.m., closing a storied chapter in New Orleans broadcast history. She likely signed off with her signature smile, a hint of sparkle, and the city’s unofficial motto: “Laissez les bon temps rouler.”
Reflecting on her retirement, WDSU General Manager Mike Neelly summed it up best:
“Margaret’s retirement is the end of an era. Her dedication, expertise, and ability to rock a pink wig are unmatched. Her legacy will inspire us all.”
Salary and Net Worth
Before her retirement, Margaret earned an estimated $135,000 annually as chief meteorologist at WDSU. Her decades-long career, community involvement, and accolades have contributed to an estimated net worth of $2 million.
