Ted Turner, the visionary media mogul who founded CNN and revolutionized global journalism with the advent of 24-hour news, has died at the age of 87. Turner Enterprises confirmed his passing on May 6, 2026. His bold concept of round-the-clock news fundamentally reshaped how audiences worldwide consume information, establishing a model now standard across global media networks.
A Legacy of Innovation in Media
Born Robert Edward Turner III, Ted Turner was known for his outspoken personality and unconventional instincts. In 1980, he launched the Cable News Network (CNN), a groundbreaking venture that many initially dismissed as a risky experiment. Yet, CNN quickly became the backbone of modern broadcast journalism, offering live, continuous coverage of global events directly into homes.
Beyond news, Turner built a sprawling media empire. His ventures included cable television's first "superstation," WTBS, along with entertainment channels dedicated to classic films (Turner Classic Movies) and animation (Cartoon Network). He also expanded into the world of sports, notably owning major franchises such as the Atlanta Braves baseball team and the Atlanta Hawks basketball team.
His insistence on real-time reporting changed journalism forever, allowing viewers to witness events as they unfolded. In 1991, Time magazine recognized his profound influence, naming him "Man of the Year" for "influencing the dynamic of events and turning viewers in 150 countries into instant witnesses of history."
Philanthropy and Environmental Advocacy
While Turner eventually sold his media holdings to Time Warner and stepped away from daily operations, he consistently referred to CNN as the "greatest achievement" of his career. However, his impact extended far beyond the media landscape.
Turner was a dedicated philanthropist and passionate advocate for global causes. He founded the United Nations Foundation, an organization committed to supporting the UN's work, and actively campaigned for nuclear disarmament. A committed conservationist, he became one of the largest private landowners in the United States, dedicating vast tracts of land to conservation efforts, including the reintroduction of bison to parts of the American West. He also promoted environmental awareness through popular culture, notably by creating the animated series Captain Planet and the Planeteers.
Later Life and Health
In 2018, just weeks before his 80th birthday, Turner publicly revealed his diagnosis with Lewy body dementia, a progressive brain condition. In early 2025, he faced a mild case of pneumonia, from which he recovered at a rehabilitation facility.
Ted Turner is survived by his five children, 14 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was married three times, with his third marriage to acclaimed actor Jane Fonda concluding in 2001. Mark Thompson, Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, paid tribute, stating, "Ted was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN. Ted is the giant on whose shoulders we stand."