Ted Turner died at his home on Wednesday, May 6th 2026. He was the founder of CNN.
Ted Turner, the founder of one of America’s biggest news media channels, Cable News Network (CNN), has died. He was 87 years old.
Turner is said to have died in Florida, USA, where he lived. He was ailing of a neuro-degenerative illness called Lewy body dementia (LBD).
Ted Turner as a Businessman
Ted Turner started by inheriting his father’s advertising firm. That was in 1963, and the firm dealt with billboard advertising. Taking over the company at 24 years of age, Turner grew it until he managed to buy a TV station that was struggling with debt.
Then, over the years, he established his own identity, from the young son who had inherited Turner Outdoor Advertising.
Turner is known for his international news media, Cable News Network (CNN), a trusted brand with global reach. Turner’s CNN was the first channel to air news throughout the day, 24/7.
Turner also established the media houses, Turner Broadcasting System (TBS) and Turner Television Network (TNT). He established TBS in 1967 and TNT in 1988. In between, in 1980, he established CNN.
TBS mainly airs comedy programs and is known for popular shows such as American Dad and The Big Bang Theory. Meanwhile, TNT focuses mainly on drama series, movies, and live sports.
Heir to Ted Turner’s Wealth
Ted Turner has left behind an empire worth $2.8 billion. This includes vast masses of land. In his lifetime, Turner was hailed for his philanthropic work.
He is survived by his five children, who are expected to inherit his massive wealth. They include Laura, Robert, Rhett, Beau, and Jennie.
Turner had three marriages, the most famous being his third, which was to Jane Fonda, an Oscar winner.
His first marriage was to Julia Gayle, the mother of Laura and Robert. The second was to Jane Shirley, mother to Beau, Rhett, and Jennie.
Ted Turner’s date of burial is yet to be made public.