TUCSON, Ariz. — The KOLD 13 News family is grappling with the sudden loss of one of their own, Ana Orsini, who passed away last week at the age of 28 after suffering from a brain aneurysm. The shocking announcement was made during their emotional live broadcast on December 16, where her colleagues struggled to hold back tears as they shared the heartbreaking news with their viewers.
Ana Orsini joined the Tucson-based CBS affiliate KOLD-TV only six months prior, back in June 2023. "We are devastated by this loss," said her co-anchor Carsyn Currier, her voice breaking as she fought back tears. Tyler Butler, another co-anchor, expressed his sorrow, stating, "We had the opportunity to work with her every day, and we do want you to know... she was just like [the funny, crazy person] off camera and more so." Their emotional words exemplified the depth of grief felt by the team, who honored her by wearing pink, apparently one of Orsini’s favorite colors.
The station has since reflected on Orsini's brief yet impactful time at KOLD. Videos showcasing her vibrant spirit and memorable moments were aired, including her first day on the anchor desk and her love for animals—particularly dogs. Colleagues described her as “someone with bottomless empathy who always stood up for ‘the little guy,’” reflecting her character both on and off the air.
Ana Orsini’s career began with roots at Texas Tech University, where she worked as both anchor and reporter. She went on to hold positions as morning and midday anchor at stations in Medford, Oregon, before returning to her dream job at KOLD, where she was known not just for her talent but her infectious energy and positive attitude.
Notably, Orsini was particularly passionate about rescue animals. She actively sought to find homes for shelter pets, often hosting segments like “Fur Baby Friday,” where she highlighted animals needing adoption. Her love for animals was only overshadowed by her commitment to her colleagues, who frequently cited her as a mentor who guided them not just professionally but personally.
Her friends at the station recalled how every day was more than just work with Orsini. "Every day with Ana was an adventure," Currier wrote on social media, adding how much easier her early morning shifts became because of Orsini’s vibrant presence. Fellow anchors echoed this sentiment, calling her “a glowing soul” and “a firecracker” who made everyone feel special and understood.
While her time at KOLD was short, it was deeply meaningful. Many of her colleagues shared touching tributes on social media, remembering her radiant spirit and the joy she brought to everyone's lives. Dan Marries, another evening anchor, noted, "Ana, you are, and will, be missed so much," highlighting the impact she had not only as a professional but as part of the KOLD family.
Orsini was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and attended the University of Arizona briefly before transferring to Texas A&M University, where she graduated with degrees in journalism, communications, and sports management. Her love for Arizona was evident, as she often expressed fondness for her home state, which she considered where she wanted to end up.
Colleagues also remarked on her fun-loving personality, emphasizing her love for true crime stories, frequently discussing her favorite podcasts, and embracing her role as the proud dog mom to her rescue dog, Harley.
The heartbreaking nature of her untimely passing struck many, with some colleagues mentioning how they still struggled to process the loss, stating, "Literally no words and only tears. Still at a loss for words," as Allie Potter, weather forecaster reflected on the shock and emptiness left behind.
Orsini's sudden death has not only left her colleagues devastated but also deeply touched the community she served. The team at KOLD 13 News expressed their thoughts and prayers for her family and highlighted the importance of remembering Ana as the bright, caring person she was. They've encouraged supporters to commemorate her legacy by donating to local animal shelters, as she “never met a dog she didn’t love.”
Following the news of her passing, tributes poured from various social media platforms as viewers and fellow journalists paid homage to her influence and the kindness she radiated. Her family and friends want her to be remembered as the beautiful, talented, and hilarious soul who brought so much to the lives of many.
Though her life was tragically cut short, Ana Orsini’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the memories and impact she made during her time at KOLD, and the joy she brought to her viewers and colleagues alike.
