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Ted Turner dies at 87
American media mogul, CNN founder, and Atlanta revolutionary, Ted Turner dies at 87 years old. We remember his legacy.
ATLANTA - Ted Turner, the outspoken media maverick who revolutionized global television by founding CNN, died Wednesday at 87 years old. Turner Enterprises confirmed his death in a news release to CNN, marking the end of a career that reshaped news, sports, and philanthropy.
Media empire history
What we know:
Turner transformed a small Atlanta television station into a global powerhouse by using satellite technology to create the first "superstation" in 1975. He launched CNN in 1980 as the first 24-hour news channel, later adding brands like TNT, Cartoon Network, and Turner Classic Movies to his portfolio.
He also expanded into professional sports, owning the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks during highly successful eras for both franchises. Turner was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year in 1991 for his influence on global events and media.
Health and final years
What we don't know:
While Turner Enterprises confirmed his death occurred Wednesday, officials have not yet released specific details regarding his final moments or exact cause of death. Turner had been living with Lewy body dementia since at least 2018, according to his own previous public disclosures.
It is also unclear if his previous bout with pneumonia in early 2025 contributed to his health decline. Details regarding funeral arrangements or public memorials have not been announced.
Legacy of giving
Why you should care:
Beyond television, Turner was a massive philanthropist who pledged $1 billion to the United Nations and founded the Nuclear Threat Initiative. He was one of the largest landowners in the U.S. and played a major role in reintroducing bison to the American West.
His environmental activism extended to entertainment, where he co-created the "Captain Planet" cartoon to teach children about conservation. Mark Thompson, Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, called Turner a "fearless" leader and the "presiding spirit" of the network.
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Atlanta leaders remember the legendary Ted Turner
The City of Atlanta is mourning the loss of Ted Turner. Turner is widely known for revolutionizing global television by founding CNN. Here's how local leaders describe his impact on the city.
Family and background
The backstory:
Born in Cincinnati in 1938, Turner took over his family's billboard business following his father's suicide in 1963 and moved it to Atlanta. He was married three times, including a high-profile marriage to actress Jane Fonda from 1991 to 2001.
Turner is survived by his five children: Laura Lee, Robert Edward Turner IV, Beau, Rhett, and Jennie. He remained a vice-chairman of Time Warner after a 1996 merger before eventually leaving the company in 2003.
Ted Turner Enterprises released a statement on behalf of the Turner family that reads in part:
"On behalf of the Turner family, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of philanthropist, environmentalist and cable pioneer Ted Turner who died peacefully today at age 87, surrounded by his family.
Turner was most known for his founding of CNN and many Turner networks (including Cartoon Network, TNT and TCM), donating over a billion dollars, saving imperiled and endangered species, preserving more than two million acres of land and serving bison in his Ted’s Montana Grill restaurants. He was also a man known for his no-holds-barred delivery, endearing sense of humor, and undying loyalty to those around him. He charmed people he met with his warmth and general lack of conceit, despite his many successes and celebrity – an attribute made apparent in his response to anyone who addressed him as "Mr. Turner" – he’d always reply, "Call me Ted!"
The family has requested privacy during this time as they grieve the death of their beloved patriarch. A private family service is planned, and a public memorial will be held at a later date, with details to follow."