Ted Turner, Media Pioneer, Passes Away at 87
Ted Turner, the founder of CNN, has died at the age of 87, as announced by Turner Enterprises on Wednesday. He reportedly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family.
Turner revolutionized the media industry when he launched CNN in 1980, introducing the concept of 24-hour news coverage. His influence extended beyond just news, as he also created well-known networks such as Cartoon Network, TNT, and Turner Classic Movies, though his interests were vast.
President Donald Trump expressed his condolences, calling Turner a friend and sharing his hopes for CNN’s future, despite his earlier criticisms of the network.
“Ted Turner, one of the Greats of All Time, just died. He founded CNN, sold it, and was personally devastated by the Deal because the new ownership took CNN, his ‘baby,’ and destroyed it. It became woke, and everything that he is not all about. Maybe the new buyers, wonderful people will be able to bring it back to its former credibility and glory,” Trump posted on Truth Social on Wednesday.
“Regardless, however, one of the Greats of Broadcast History, and a friend of mine. Whenever I needed him, he was there, always willing to fight for a good cause!” Trump added.
Turner was often described as both brash and charming. Turner Enterprises noted his “warmth and general lack of conceit.”
“He was also a man known for his no-holds-barred delivery, endearing sense of humor, and undying loyalty to those around him,” the statement continued.
He leaves behind five children. A private family service will be held, and a public memorial is expected later.
“Ted was an intensely involved and committed leader, intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch and trust his own judgement. He was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN,” said Mark Thompson, chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, in a statement.
“Ted is the giant on whose shoulders we stand, and we will all take a moment today to recognize him and his impact on our lives and in the world,” he added.
