United States: Ted Turner, Founder of CNN, Passes Away at 87
A Major Figure in American Media Passes Away
The American 24-hour news network CNN announced on Wednesday the death of its founder, Ted Turner, who passed away at the age of 87.
A Death in Florida
Originally from Ohio in the American Midwest, Ted Turner died at his home near Tallahassee, Florida, according to a statement reported by CNN on its official website.
Tributes to a Media Pioneer
Mark Thompson, the CEO of CNN, praised the memory of a “deeply involved and committed” leader in the development of media.
He also referred to Ted Turner as a “giant” in the industry, emphasizing the lasting impact he leaves on the global media landscape.
The Legacy of a Media Empire
Ted Turner is regarded as one of the pioneers of modern television. He notably:
- founded CNN in 1980, the first 24-hour news channel,
- developed several thematic television channels,
- created one of the first major American cable “superstations,”
- and invested in professional sports, notably with the Atlanta Braves.
An End Marked by Illness
In 2018, the businessman revealed that he was suffering from Lewy body dementia, a neurodegenerative condition akin to Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
With the passing of Ted Turner, the media world loses a historic figure who profoundly transformed the way information is produced and consumed on a global scale.
