Ted Turner, the media maverick and philanthropist who founded CNN, a revolutionary 24-hour news network, died peacefully Wednesday at the age of 87, surrounded by family, as confirmed by a release from Turner Enterprises.
Why it matters: Ted Turner's death marks the end of an era for television news and media innovation. His vision for real-time global news coverage changed how people consume information and set a precedent for future media outlets.
- Turner was nicknamed “The Mouth of the South” for his outspoken nature and played a key role in shaping modern media.
- He created CNN in 1980, the first 24-hour news channel, which revolutionized television news and inspired similar networks worldwide.
- Turner’s philanthropic efforts included founding the United Nations Foundation and advocating for nuclear disarmament.
Driving the news: Turner, born on November 19, 1938, in Cincinnati, Ohio, began his career at his father's billboard company after his father’s tragic suicide in 1963. He entered the television industry in 1970 by acquiring a struggling Atlanta station, which he transformed into cable's first superstation.
- In 1976, he purchased the Atlanta Braves and began broadcasting their games nationally, coining the term “America’s Team.”
- Turner launched CNN on June 1, 1980, with the ambitious goal of providing continuous news coverage.
- His networks gained global attention during the Gulf War in 1990, marking a turning point in live news broadcasting.
State of play: Turner built a vast media empire that included CNN International, TNT, Cartoon Network, and Turner Classic Movies. His ventures extended beyond news, impacting sports and entertainment significantly.
- Turner acquired MGM's film library for $1.5 billion in 1985, enhancing his media portfolio.
- He was instrumental in creating the animated series Captain Planet, aimed at educating children about environmental issues.
- Turner’s innovative approach to broadcasting set the stage for the current media environment dominated by streaming and 24-hour news cycles.
The big picture: Ted Turner’s influence extended beyond media; he was a dedicated philanthropist and conservationist. He was known for his efforts to reintroduce bison to the American West and managed the largest commercial bison herd in North America.
- Turner pledged $1 billion to the United Nations in 1997, establishing the United Nations Foundation to support global humanitarian efforts.
- His commitment to environmental causes was evident through the Turner Foundation, which has donated over $380 million to various initiatives since its inception.
- Turner’s legacy includes a focus on sustainability and wildlife conservation, impacting future generations.
What they're saying: Mark Thompson, Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, praised Turner’s leadership and vision. “Ted was an intensely involved and committed leader, intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch and trust his own judgment,” he said.
- Thompson referred to Turner as the “giant on whose shoulders we stand,” emphasizing his lasting impact on CNN and the media industry.
- Many colleagues and friends have shared their memories of Turner’s dedication to journalism and his larger-than-life personality.
- Former CNN journalist Lisa Napoli highlighted Turner’s belief that “there was no place to promote a variety of opinions than on almighty television.”
By the numbers: Throughout his career, Turner received numerous accolades, including Time magazine’s Man of the Year in 1991 for his contributions to global news.
- Turner owned two million acres across 28 properties, making him one of the largest private landowners in the U.S.
- He was married three times, including a high-profile marriage to actress Jane Fonda from 1991 to 2001.
- Turner is survived by five children, 14 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
What's next: Turner’s passing leaves a void in the media and philanthropic communities. His vision for a more informed world continues to inspire journalists and media professionals globally.
- As the media industry evolves, Turner's legacy will be remembered through the foundations he established and the innovations he championed.
- His impact on environmental conservation and global awareness will likely influence future generations of activists and leaders.
- Turner's life story serves as a reminder of the power of media to effect change and the importance of philanthropic efforts in addressing global challenges.