Ted Turner, the founder of CNN and an influential figure in media, sports, and conservation, has died at age 87. The announcement was made by Turner Enterprises, which confirmed his passing without disclosing further details.
Turner launched CNN as the first 24-hour cable news network in 1980, fundamentally reshaping the news industry. Beyond television, he owned the Atlanta Braves and Hawks, contributed billions to the United Nations Foundation—a nonprofit that supports international cooperation—and served as chairman of its board until his death. In 2018, Turner revealed he was battling Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological disorder.
CNN Chairman and CEO Mark Thompson stated: “Ted is the giant on whose shoulders we stand, and we will all take a moment today to recognize him and his impact on our lives and the world.”
Turner’s pioneering work in 24-hour news broadcasting revolutionized global journalism. His personal life included three marriages, notably a decade-long union with actress Jane Fonda, whom he described as “the great love of his life.” Turner was also known for his strong criticism of Christianity, once labeling it “a religion for losers” and mocking Catholics marking Ash Wednesday as “Jesus freaks.”
