Ted Turner, a bold sportsman and visionary entrepreneur who built a media empire that included the pioneering news network CNN, has passed away at the age of 87, as reported by CNN citing a statement from Turner Enterprises. The cause of death was not disclosed. In September 2018, Turner disclosed his battle with Lewy body dementia, a degenerative nerve condition.
Born Robert Edward Turner III in Cincinnati on November 19, 1938, he relocated to the South with his family at a young age. After attending military schools, Turner excelled as a debater and yachtsman. He acquired immense wealth by expanding his father’s billboard business, acquiring a television station in 1970, and transforming it into a groundbreaking television conglomerate.
As a leading figure in U.S. media and entertainment, Turner’s networks were known for their news, sports coverage, reruns, and classic movies. Throughout his life, Turner was married and divorced three times, with his most notable marriage to Jane Fonda ending after a decade in 2001.
In 1980, Turner launched CNN in Atlanta, aiming to counter what he perceived as sensationalized reporting by major networks like CBS, NBC, and ABC. Despite initial skepticism, CNN revolutionized news broadcasting by becoming the first 24-hour news channel, setting a new standard for global news coverage.
Aside from his media ventures, Turner was a significant philanthropist. In 1997, he made history by pledging $1 billion to support United Nations initiatives, a decision he later hailed as his best investment. The Turner Foundation also contributed generously to environmental causes and clean energy initiatives.
Turner’s legacy as a media pioneer, philanthropist, and environmental advocate will endure as a testament to his impactful contributions to society.