The death of media pioneer Ted Turner at age 87 has triggered tributes across the political and entertainment worlds, including a notable statement from President Donald Trump that praised Turner’s legacy while sharply criticizing modern-day CNN.
Turner, who founded CNN in 1980 and transformed cable television news forever, died peacefully surrounded by family, according to reports released Wednesday . His passing immediately sparked reactions from journalists, celebrities, business leaders, and political figures reflecting on his influence over modern media.
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Donald Trump Praises Ted Turner’s Media Legacy
President Trump addressed Turner’s death in a lengthy social media statement where he described the CNN founder as “one of the greats of broadcast history” and credited him with building one of the most influential news networks in the world .
Trump also spoke warmly about his personal relationship with Turner, calling him a friend who was “always willing to fight for a good cause.” However, the tribute quickly shifted into criticism of CNN’s current editorial direction.
The president claimed the network had changed dramatically after Turner sold Turner Broadcasting to Time Warner in the 1990s. Trump argued the company had moved away from the vision Turner originally created and accused modern CNN of becoming overly political and “woke” .
His comments immediately fueled renewed debate over media bias, cable news credibility, and the changing landscape of television journalism.
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Ted Turner Revolutionized Television News
Long before streaming platforms and digital media reshaped the industry, Turner changed television forever by launching the world’s first 24-hour news channel. CNN officially went live on June 1, 1980, after many critics dismissed the idea as financially impossible .
Turner’s gamble ultimately transformed global journalism. CNN became known worldwide for live coverage of major historical events, including the Challenger disaster, the Gulf War, presidential elections, and international crises.
Beyond CNN, Turner also helped create cable television giants including TBS, TNT, Cartoon Network, and Turner Classic Movies. His business empire expanded into sports ownership, philanthropy, and environmental activism.
The outspoken businessman earned the nickname “The Mouth of the South” because of his larger-than-life personality and willingness to challenge industry norms.
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Legacy Extends Beyond Media Industry
Turner’s influence stretched far beyond television. He donated billions to humanitarian and environmental causes over the course of his life and founded organizations focused on global health, conservation, and nuclear disarmament.
He was also widely recognized for helping restore the American bison population and became one of the largest private landowners in the United States.
In recent years, Turner had been battling Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological disorder he publicly disclosed in 2018 .
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from former CNN anchors, executives, and longtime colleagues who described him as fearless, visionary, and impossible to replace.
Even as political debates surrounding CNN continue, many media analysts agree that Turner’s creation permanently changed how people consume breaking news around the world.
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Diana Luci is a U.S.-based financial news writer covering Social Security, IRS tax updates, SNAP benefits, Medicare, and government assistance programs. She focuses on simplifying complex financial and policy topics into clear, easy-to-understand information for everyday readers.