Ted Turner, Founder of CNN and Media Visionary, Dies at 87

Ted Turner, the outspoken media entrepreneur who transformed global television news by launching CNN, has died peacefully at the age of 87, according to Turner Enterprises.

Widely known as a pioneer of 24-hour news broadcasting, Turner built a powerful media empire that reshaped cable television. Beyond CNN, he helped launch major entertainment networks including TNT, Cartoon Network and Turner Classic Movies, while also owning sports franchises such as the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks.

Born in Cincinnati and later based in Atlanta, Turner earned the nickname “The Mouth of the South” for his bold personality and unconventional leadership style.

CNN, launched on June 1, 1980, became the world’s first 24-hour television news channel. Despite early criticism and skepticism from industry experts, the network went on to revolutionize live news coverage, especially during major global events such as the Gulf War.

Turner later sold his media holdings to Time Warner in a multibillion-dollar deal, though he continued to describe CNN as the greatest achievement of his life.

Apart from broadcasting, Turner was also known for his philanthropy and environmental work. He established the United Nations Foundation, campaigned against nuclear weapons and became one of the largest private landowners in the United States. He also played a major role in restoring bison populations across the American West.

In 2018, Turner revealed he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. Earlier this year, he recovered from a mild case of pneumonia following hospitalization.

Turner is survived by his five children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.