Ted Turner, the outspoken media mogul who founded CNN and introduced the world to 24-hour television news, died on Wednesday at the age of 87. He passed away surrounded by family, according to Turner Enterprises, which manages his business interests.
Turner’s influence stretched far beyond television. He built a vast empire that included sports franchises, film libraries, and millions of acres of land across the United States. He also famously raced yachts, defending the America’s Cup in 1977.
Over the years, he became known for his bold personality and sharp remarks, earning nicknames such as “Captain Outrageous” and “The Mouth of the South.” He once joked, “If only I had a little humility, I’d be perfect.”
In later life, Turner slowed down due to Lewy body dementia and shifted his focus to philanthropy and land conservation. He owned more than two million acres of ranch land and maintained one of the largest private bison herds in the United States. He also donated about $1 billion to United Nations causes and environmental projects.
How did Ted Turner launch CNN?
Turner’s media journey began after taking over his father’s billboard company following his death in 1963. He later acquired a struggling television station in Atlanta, laying the foundation for what would become a broadcasting empire.
His biggest breakthrough came in 1980 with the launch of CNN, the first 24-hour all-news network. At the time, the idea was considered risky, but Turner pushed forward, believing audiences should have constant access to news.
CNN’s global reputation rose sharply during the 1991 Gulf War, when it remained in Baghdad while other networks pulled out, delivering real-time war coverage that changed broadcast journalism.
In 1996, Turner sold Turner Broadcasting System to Time Warner in a multibillion-dollar deal, though he later expressed regret over losing control of the company.
Beyond media, Turner owned the Atlanta Braves and other sports teams, turning the Braves into a national baseball brand during the 1990s. He also expanded into film and television libraries, which later formed channels such as TNT, Cartoon Network, and Turner Classic Movies.
Turner’s wealth peaked at nearly $10 billion before declining in later years, but he remained active in philanthropy, environmental advocacy, and global peace initiatives.
Even in his later years, he remained a larger-than-life figure in American business history, known for risk-taking, blunt honesty, and bold ambition.
