Ted Turner, the bold sportsman and entrepreneur who founded the media empire that included groundbreaking news network CNN, has passed away at the age of 87, according to a press release from Turner Enterprises as reported by CNN on Wednesday.
No specific cause of death was provided. In September 2018, Turner disclosed that he had Lewy body dementia, a degenerative nerve condition.
Born as Robert Edward Turner III in Cincinnati on November 19, 1938, he relocated to the South with his family at the age of nine and attended military schools, excelling as a champion debater and yachtsman.
He amassed his fortune by expanding his father’s billboard business, acquiring a television station in 1970, and transforming it into a vast television conglomerate that also included Turner Classic Movies, TNT, and the TBS SuperStation.
Turner rose to prominence in the U.S. media and entertainment arena, with his networks specializing in news, sports, reruns, and classic movies.
Famous actor Jane Fonda, his third wife, paid tribute to Turner on Instagram, recalling their relationship and his impactful initiatives for wildlife conservation and his children.
Turner’s legacy includes the creation of CNN in 1980, the first 24-hour all-news television network, challenging traditional network coverage and setting a new standard for global news reporting.
Despite his significant achievements, Turner faced challenges after the sale of his company to Time Warner for $7.3 billion, which led to his gradual departure from CNN.
Turner’s influence extended beyond CNN, as he ventured into sports ownership, notably with the Atlanta Braves, guiding them to success and transforming them into a respected baseball franchise.
Apart from his media and sports ventures, Turner was also known for his philanthropy, donating a substantial sum to the United Nations and championing causes related to world peace, environmental conservation, and clean energy.
His dedication to charitable endeavors and his concerns about global issues earned him admiration and respect from various quarters, leaving a lasting impact on the world.
