Ted Turner, the founder of CNN — pioneering 24 hour TV network has died peacefully on Wednesday surrounded by his family.according to a statement from Turner Enterprises. He was 87.
The Ohio – born Atlanta businessman ,nicknamed ” The Mouth of the South for his spoken nature ,built a media empire that encompassed cable’s first superstation and popular channels for movies and cartoons ,plus professional sports teams like the Atlanta Braves.
Turner was internationally recognised philanthropist, and an activist who sought the worldwide elimination of nuclear weapons.
According to Mark Thompson, the Chairman and CEO of CNN worldwide,”
Ted was an intensely involved and committed leader , intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch and trust his own judgement “
” He was and would always be the presiding spirit of CNN . Ted is the giant on whose shoulders we stand ,and we will all take a moment today to recognise him and his impact on our lives and the world”
Turner eventually sold his networks to Time Warner and later exited the business ,but continued to express pride in CNN, calling it ” the “greatest achievement” of his life” CNN reports indicate.
He is survived by his five children,14 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
