Ted Turner, the groundbreaking media entrepreneur who founded CNN and transformed television news with the world’s first 24-hour news network, has died at the age of 87. According to a statement from Turner Enterprises, he passed away peacefully surrounded by family.
Born in Ohio and later based in Atlanta, Turner built a massive media empire that included CNN, TBS, TNT, Cartoon Network and other major networks. Known for his bold personality and fearless business style, he became one of the most influential figures in television history.
Turner launched CNN on June 1, 1980, changing the way people around the world consumed news. While many critics initially doubted the idea of a 24-hour news channel, CNN eventually became a global powerhouse, especially during major live events such as the Gulf War. Turner later called CNN the greatest achievement of his life.
Beyond television, Turner owned the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Hawks, helping grow both franchises into nationally recognized teams. He also expanded his business ventures with cable superstations, movie channels and animation programming.
Turner’s life was shaped by both success and personal tragedy. After his father died by suicide in 1963, Turner took over the family billboard business at just 24 years old and rapidly expanded it into a major company. His determination and risk-taking eventually led him into broadcasting and cable television.
Outside of business, Turner became widely respected for his philanthropy and environmental work. He donated $1 billion to the United Nations and founded organizations focused on conservation, nuclear disarmament and protecting endangered species. He also helped restore bison populations in the American West and created the environmental cartoon series Captain Planet and the Planeteers.
Turner was also known for his high-profile marriage to actress Jane Fonda, whom he was married to from 1991 to 2001. Despite their divorce, the two remained close friends for years afterward.
In 2018, Turner revealed he had Lewy body dementia, a progressive brain disorder. Earlier this year, he reportedly recovered after being hospitalized with pneumonia.
Tributes have poured in from across the media world, with many praising Turner for revolutionizing television journalism and inspiring generations of broadcasters. He is survived by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.