‘The most fearless journalist’: reactions to the death of CNN founder Ted Turner
Tributes poured in from across the worlds of journalism, politics, sports and philanthropy following the death of CNN founder Ted Turner, who passed away at the age of 87.
Turner, the billionaire media entrepreneur who launched the world’s first 24-hour television news network, was remembered as a fearless broadcaster, visionary businessman and influential philanthropist whose impact reshaped global media.
U.S. President Donald Trump described Turner as “one of the Greats of All Time” in a post on Truth Social.
Trump said Turner was personally affected after selling CNN, claiming the network later moved away from the values he believed in. He also called Turner “one of the Greats of Broadcast History” and described him as a friend who was always willing to support causes he believed in.
Former CNN chief Walter Isaacson called Turner “the most fearless journalist” he had ever seen while speaking at the Sir Harry Evans Investigative Journalism Summit in London.
Isaacson said Turner remained fearless in dealing with political leaders as well as corporate management after Time Warner acquired CNN. Recalling the September 11 attacks, he said Turner came to the newsroom carrying a Confederate sword and told journalists that “journalism is made for times like this.”
Retired wrestling legend Ric Flair praised Turner for taking risks and creating opportunities in professional wrestling and broadcast television.
CNN Worldwide Chairman and CEO Mark Thompson said Turner would “always be the presiding spirit of CNN,” calling him “the giant on whose shoulders we stand.”
CNN chief international anchor Christiane Amanpour remembered Turner as a towering global figure who changed journalism and influenced generations of reporters.
“He said it like it was and like it is,” Amanpour said on CNN, adding that Turner transformed not only the news industry but also the lives of those who worked with him.
Baseball team Atlanta Braves, once owned by Turner, described him as a visionary leader whose innovations helped transform the franchise into “America’s Team.” The club credited him with helping guide the Braves through one of the most successful periods in Major League Baseball history, including their 1995 World Series victory.
New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof highlighted Turner’s role in reshaping modern philanthropy. He said Turner’s 1997 pledge of one billion dollars to support United Nations operations encouraged wealthy individuals to become more involved in charitable giving.
Kristof said Turner “made giving cool” and helped save countless lives through his philanthropic efforts.
Turner founded CNN in 1980, pioneering round-the-clock television news and changing the global media landscape. He was also known for his role in sports broadcasting, environmental advocacy and large-scale charitable initiatives.
-Reuters
