Ted Turner, the founder of CNN and one of the most influential figures in cable television, has died at the age of 87. Turner passed away on 6 May surrounded by family, according to a statement issued by Turner Enterprises.
Widely credited with reshaping the television news industry, Turner launched CNN in 1980 as the world’s first 24-hour cable news network, fundamentally changing the way news was consumed globally.
He also founded WTBS, which helped pioneer the “superstation” model in cable broadcasting, and later launched Turner Network Television (TNT). Through a series of acquisitions and media ventures, Turner played a central role in the rapid expansion of the cable television industry during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Known for his outspoken personality and unconventional style, Turner earned the nicknames “The Mouth of the South” and “Captain Outrageous” during his decades-long career in media.
Mark Thompson, Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, said in a statement, “He was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN. 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 the world.”
