Media pioneer Ted Turner, the founder of CNN� and one of the most influential figures in modern broadcasting, has died at the age of 87.
Turner transformed global journalism in 1980 when he launched CNN, the world’s first 24-hour television news channel. At a time when many doubted the idea could succeed, the network went on to redefine how people consumed news, making live, continuous coverage a permanent part of global media.
Announcing his death, CNN Chairman and CEO Mark Thompson described Turner as “the giant on whose shoulders we stand,” praising his fearless leadership and bold vision.
“Ted was intensely involved, fearless and always willing to trust his instincts. He was and always will be the spirit of CNN,” Thompson said.
US President Donald Trump also paid tribute to Turner, calling him “one of the greats of broadcast history” and describing him as a loyal friend who was always ready to support a good cause.
CNN faced heavy criticism and ridicule in its early years, with critics dismissing it as the “Chicken Noodle Network.” However, the channel quickly proved its value through uninterrupted coverage of major global events, including the attempted assassination of former US President Ronald Reagan in 1981 and the 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster.
The network later gained worldwide recognition for its live reporting during the 1990–1991 Gulf War, cementing its place as a dominant force in international journalism.
Veteran CNN journalist Christiane Amanpour described Turner as the man who created “an unstoppable media revolution.”
“Working for Ted and his vision has been one of the proudest achievements of my life,” she said.
Turner’s influence extended far beyond news television. He built a vast media empire that included channels such as TBS, TNT, Turner Classic Movies and Cartoon Network. He also owned major sports franchises, including the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Hawks.
Known for his outspoken personality and unconventional style, Turner earned nicknames such as “The Mouth of the South” and “Captain Outrageous.” Former colleagues recalled how he often walked through CNN’s newsroom in a bathrobe, debating stories with journalists and pushing them to think bigger.
Outside broadcasting, Turner was also a successful yachtsman and won the prestigious America’s Cup in 1977. He later became widely respected for his philanthropy, donating $1 billion to the United Nations and supporting environmental and clean energy causes around the world.
Turner was married to actress Jane Fonda from 1991 to 2001.
In 2018, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological condition.
Media executives and journalists across the world have continued to honour his legacy, describing him as one of the most fearless and visionary figures in the history of television journalism.
His influence on global media, cable television and 24-hour news coverage remains one of the most significant transformations in modern broadcasting history.
