Ted Turner, the visionary media mogul who founded CNN and revolutionized global news broadcasting, has died at the age of 87, according to statements from Turner Enterprises and multiple media reports.
Turner, born Robert Edward Turner III, passed away on May 6, 2026, at his home near Tallahassee, Florida. No immediate cause of death was disclosed, though he had previously revealed in 2018 that he was living with Lewy body dementia, a degenerative neurological condition.
Widely regarded as a pioneer of modern television journalism, Turner transformed the media landscape in 1980 when he launched CNN, the world’s first 24-hour cable news network. The innovation fundamentally changed how audiences consume information, introducing continuous, real-time coverage of global events and setting a standard that has since been adopted worldwide.
In a tribute, CNN Worldwide chairman and CEO Mark Thompson described Turner as “an intensely involved and committed leader, intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch,” adding that “he was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN.”
Turner’s influence extended far beyond CNN. He built a vast media empire through Turner Broadcasting System, pioneering the “superstation” model with WTBS and later expanding into entertainment, sports, and film. His company eventually merged with Time Warner in the 1990s, cementing his place as one of the most influential figures in American media history.
Known for his bold personality and unconventional leadership style, Turner also owned major sports franchises, including the Atlanta Braves baseball team, and played a key role in promoting global sporting events such as the Goodwill Games.
Beyond business, Turner was a prominent philanthropist and environmental advocate. He donated $1 billion to establish the United Nations Foundation and co-founded the Nuclear Threat Initiative, reflecting his long-standing commitment to global security and humanitarian causes.
