Newsroom
Media entrepreneur Ted Turner, the founder of CNN and one of the most influential figures in television news, has died at 87, according to the network he created.
Turner transformed broadcasting in 1980 when he introduced CNN, the first channel dedicated entirely to round-the-clock news coverage. At the time, many doubted a 24-hour news station could survive, with critics mocking the network in its early years. CNN later proved its value through nonstop reporting on major events including the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan, the 1986 Challenger shuttle explosion and the Gulf War in 1990 and 1991.
The network’s wartime coverage from Iraq established CNN as a major force in international journalism. Former President George H. W. Bush once remarked that he learned more from CNN than from intelligence briefings.
Current CNN chairman and chief executive Mark Thompson praised Turner as a fearless and highly engaged leader whose influence shaped both the company and television news itself.
US President Donald Trump also paid tribute, describing Turner as a major figure in broadcasting and recalling his willingness to support causes he believed in. Trump has frequently criticised the modern-day CNN despite his personal respect for its founder.
Turner built a vast media empire beyond CNN. After taking control of his family’s billboard business following his father’s death, he expanded into radio and television, eventually creating the Turner Broadcasting System. His holdings later included channels such as TBS, TNT, Turner Classic Movies and Cartoon Network.
He also pursued film acquisitions, buying MGM in a deal that proved financially difficult. Later, he acquired Castle Rock Entertainment and New Line Cinema before Turner Broadcasting became part of Time Warner.
Known for his outspoken personality, Turner earned nicknames including “Captain Outrageous” and “the Mouth of the South”. He also found success outside media as a competitive yachtsman, winning the America's Cup in 1977.
His business interests extended into professional sports ownership, including the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta Thrashers.
Turner became equally recognised for philanthropy, contributing $1bn to the United Nations along with substantial donations to environmental and clean energy projects.
He was married to actress Jane Fonda from 1991 to 2001. In 2018, Turner disclosed that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia.
