Atlanta - Ted Turner, the media innovator who established CNN and championed global collaboration, has passed away at the age of 87. His death signifies the loss of a significant figure who embodied the American entrepreneurial spirit and advocated for international cooperation.

Turner's creation of CNN revolutionized television news, providing a 24-hour news cycle that informed and connected people worldwide. This innovation fostered a greater awareness of global events and facilitated a more informed citizenry. By delivering news in real-time, CNN empowered individuals to engage with current affairs and participate in democratic processes.

Mark Thompson, chair and CEO of CNN Worldwide, lauded Turner's leadership: “Ted was an intensely involved and committed leader, intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch and trust his own judgment. 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.”

Turner's commitment to global understanding extended beyond news broadcasting. His founding of the United Nations Foundation in 1998, accompanied by a $1 billion donation, demonstrated his belief in the importance of international cooperation and American leadership within the UN. According to the foundation, “Ted’s goals in establishing the foundation were to demonstrate the value of investing in the UN, encourage new partners to work with the UN and promote strong US leadership at the UN.” This initiative aimed to strengthen the UN's ability to address global challenges and promote peace and security.

His establishment of the Nuclear Threat Initiative further highlights his dedication to safeguarding global security by mitigating the risks associated with nuclear weapons and other dangerous technologies.

Turner's recognition as Time magazine's “Man of the Year” in 1991 underscores his profound influence on global events and his role in shaping public discourse.

The sale of Turner Broadcasting System to Time Warner Inc. allowed for further expansion and innovation within the media landscape, contributing to the growth of the industry.

Turner's later years were marked by his diagnosis with Lewy body dementia in 2018 and a brief hospitalization for pneumonia in 2025. Despite these health challenges, his legacy as a media pioneer and philanthropist remains intact.

Ted Turner's life exemplifies the power of individual initiative and the importance of promoting global understanding. His contributions to news broadcasting and international cooperation have left a lasting impact on the world. His commitment to innovation and his belief in American leadership serve as an inspiration for future generations.