Ted Turner, the visionary behind the creation of CNN, a groundbreaking 24-hour cable news network, has passed away at 87 years old. Turner breathed his last in the presence of his family, as confirmed by Turner Enterprises, the entity managing his extensive business ventures. In 1980, Turner introduced Cable News Network (CNN), marking the inception of the first continuous all-news television channel.
Following Turner’s demise, President Donald Trump, known for his critical stance towards CNN, hailed Turner as “one of the Greats of All Time,” expressing gratitude for Turner’s unwavering support in noble causes. Mark Thompson, the current CEO and chairman of CNN, paid tribute to Turner, acknowledging him as a monumental figure whose legacy profoundly influences both personal lives and the global landscape.
Describing Turner as a deeply involved and fearless leader, Thompson highlighted Turner’s pioneering spirit that shaped CNN’s essence. Turner’s frustration with conventional TV news limitations drove him to establish CNN, a risk that paid off despite initial skepticism, with CNN being derisively nicknamed the “chicken noodle network.”
CNN’s pivotal moment arrived during the 1990-1991 Gulf War when its reporters stayed in Baghdad, offering live coverage amid the conflict’s outbreak while other media outlets retreated. Turner’s impact extended beyond CNN, as he also founded TBS, TNT, Turner Classic Movies, and Cartoon Network.
Turner’s personal life included three marriages, leading to the birth of his children. In his later years, Turner battled Lewy body dementia, yet he remained actively engaged in philanthropy, notably pledging $1 billion to United Nations charities in 1997.
Despite financial setbacks post the AOL Time Warner merger, Turner continued supporting UN initiatives, emphasizing its crucial role in fostering global peace. He championed various humanitarian causes, co-founding the Nuclear Threat Initiative with former U.S. Sen. Sam Nunn to address threats posed by nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons.
Expressing concerns about global challenges like weapons of mass destruction and climate change, Turner emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues to safeguard humanity’s future.