Ted Turner, the influential media entrepreneur who transformed the television industry with the launch of CNN and helped shape modern cable broadcasting, died Wednesday at his home near Tallahassee, Florida. He was 87.
Phillip Evans, a spokesperson for Turner’s family, confirmed his death.
Ted Turner was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia.
Turner revealed in 2018 that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological disorder that affects cognitive and physical abilities.
Turner became one of the most recognizable figures in American media during the late 20th century. Known for his bold personality and ambitious vision, he revolutionized television journalism by launching CNN (Cable News Network), the world’s first 24-hour news channel, in 1980.
The network permanently changed how audiences consumed news and inspired the creation of numerous around-the-clock news outlets worldwide.
Beyond CNN, Turner expanded his media empire with several successful cable channels. He introduced CNN Headline News, which focused on quick news updates, and launched CNN International to deliver global news coverage worldwide.

Turner also played a major role in sports and entertainment broadcasting. He developed the cable “superstation” that later became TBS and helped establish TNT, both of which remain major television networks reaching millions of viewers.
Outside the media industry, Turner was known for his involvement in professional sports, environmental advocacy, and philanthropy. His contributions to broadcasting and global media left a lasting impact on journalism and television entertainment.
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