CNN founder Ted Turner dies at 87

Ted Turner, the media entrepreneur who revolutionised global television journalism by launching the world’s first 24-hour news network, has died at the age of 87.

 

His death was confirmed in a statement by Turner Enterprises on Wednesday.

 

Turner founded Cable News Network (CNN) in 1980, a groundbreaking venture that transformed news delivery by introducing round-the-clock, real-time coverage of global events.

 

“Turner’s vision changed journalism forever by making news immediate, global, and constant,” the statement said.

 

Widely regarded as a pioneer of modern broadcasting, Turner built a vast media empire spanning news, entertainment, and sports, including Cartoon Network and Turner Classic Movies. He also owned the Atlanta Braves, helping elevate the baseball team’s national profile.

 

“He was a once-in-a-generation media pioneer whose influence touched every corner of modern broadcasting,” a former CNN executive said.

 

Beyond media, Turner was a notable philanthropist and environmental advocate. He founded the United Nations Foundation after pledging $1 billion to support UN initiatives and became one of the largest private landowners in the United States.

 

His environmental efforts 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 profound impact on global media.

 

“He turned viewers into instant witnesses to history,” the magazine wrote.

 

Turner stepped back from active leadership after selling much of his media holdings to Time Warner, but 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.

 

His death marks the end of an era for global media, leaving behind a legacy that fundamentally reshaped television news and international communication.