News
CNN founder Ted Turner has died aged 87
Media pioneer Ted Turner, founder of CNN, dies at 87, leaving a legacy in news and philanthropy
Media pioneer Ted Turner, founder of CNN, dies at 87, leaving a legacy in news and philanthropy
– Ted Turner, CNN founder and media pioneer, passed away at 87, impacting journalism significantly.
– Known for his philanthropy, he created various channels and transformed the cable news landscape.
Ted Turner, the founder of CNN, passed away at age 87.Turner Enterprises and CNN reported his death on Wednesday morning, U.S. time.
Born in Ohio, Turner also created and owned other notable channels like Cartoon Network and TBS.
He was recognised for his environmental efforts, philanthropy, and support for the United Nations.
Cable news pioneer
Turner was known for his bold personality, earning nicknames such as “Mouth of the South” and “Captain Outrageous.”
U.S. President Donald Trump praised him, calling him “one of the greats of all time” and a supportive friend.
CNN chief executive Mark Thompson remarked that Turner was a foundational figure in the industry.
Turner’s family highlighted his humour and loyalty, recalling his warmth despite his fame.
He transformed his father’s billboard business into a television empire after starting with a station in 1970.
The Turner Broadcasting System became profitable due to low-cost, 24-hour programming, leading to the creation of CNN in 1980.
He aimed to provide an alternative to the American networks’ coverage, which he critiqued as being misleading.
CNN’s coverage of the Gulf War propelled the network into the spotlight.
CNN changed news coverage, particularly during the 1990-91 Gulf War.
Turner stated in 2013, “We won’t be signing off until the world ends.”
Turner was named Time magazine’s Man of the Year in 1991 for his influence in journalism.
Media rivalries
Turner supported the $U.S. 99 billion merger between Time Warner and AOL in 2001 but lost control of his networks.
He faced personal struggles, including depression and a rivalry with Rupert Murdoch, who founded Fox News.
This rivalry became intense after a sailing incident in the 1983 Sydney-Hobart race.
Turner was known for his outspoken nature, famously saying, “I say what comes to my mind.”
In 1997, he donated $1 billion to the United Nations, marking a significant philanthropic achievement.
Turner owned extensive land across multiple states, including a herd of bison and ranches in Patagonia.
He was married three times and had five children, with his last marriage to actress Jane Fonda ending in 2001.
