Media pioneer Ted Turner, the founder of CNN and one of the most influential figures in modern television, has died at the age of 87 following a long battle with dementia.
Turner Enterprises confirmed that Turner died Wednesday morning. In 2018, the billionaire businessman publicly revealed he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia shortly after celebrating his 80th birthday.
Turner transformed the television industry when he launched Cable News Network, better known as CNN, in 1979, creating the world’s first 24-hour news channel. His growing media empire later expanded to include TBS Superstation, TNT, Cartoon Network and Turner Classic Movies. At one point, Turner also controlled much of MGM Studios’ historic film library.
Widely recognized for reshaping cable television, Turner began his career in advertising before building one of the most successful media companies in the country. His business holdings later merged with Time Warner, further cementing his influence in the entertainment industry.
Beyond media, Turner made major investments in professional sports. He purchased the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks in the 1970s and later acquired World Championship Wrestling. In 1977, he won the America’s Cup yacht race, earning national attention and a Sports Illustrated cover story.
CNN CEO Mark Thompson paid tribute to Turner’s legacy, saying, “Ted was an intensely involved and committed leader, intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch and trust his own judgement. He was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN.”
Turner was also known for his philanthropy, joining the Giving Pledge in 2010 and promising to donate most of his fortune to charity. He is survived by his five children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
