CNN Founder Ted Turner Dies at 87
Ted Turner, the visionary media entrepreneur who revolutionised global journalism by launching the world’s first 24-hour news network, has died at the age of 87.
His death was confirmed on Wednesday in a statement issued by Turner Enterprises, marking the end of a career that reshaped how news is produced and consumed worldwide.
Turner is best known for founding CNN in 1980, a groundbreaking venture that introduced continuous, real-time news coverage. The network went on to become one of the most influential media organisations globally, transforming journalism into a fast-paced, around-the-clock enterprise.
“Turner’s vision changed journalism forever by making news immediate, global, and constant,” the statement said.
Beyond news, Turner built a vast media empire spanning entertainment and sports, including networks such as Cartoon Network and Turner Classic Movies. He also owned the Atlanta Braves, helping elevate the team’s national profile.
Industry figures described him as a transformative force in broadcasting. “He was a once-in-a-generation media pioneer whose influence touched every corner of modern broadcasting,” a former CNN executive said.
Outside the media space, Turner was widely recognised for his philanthropy and environmental advocacy. He established the United Nations Foundation after pledging $1 billion to support United Nations initiatives. His environmental efforts also included wildlife conservation and public awareness campaigns, notably through the animated series Captain Planet and the Planeteers.
In 1991, Time magazine named him Man of the Year, citing his global impact on media and public consciousness.
Turner stepped back from active business leadership after selling much of his empire to Time Warner, though he remained closely associated with CNN, often describing it as his proudest achievement.
In 2018, he disclosed that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia and had faced declining health in recent years.
“Ted was fearless in his ideas and relentless in pursuing them,” a longtime associate said. “He believed in his instincts when few others did.”
His legacy endures as a pioneer who transformed television journalism and left an indelible mark on global media.
CNN Founder Ted Turner Dies at 87