Ted Turner, the visionary entrepreneur who founded CNN and transformed global television news, has died at the age of 87. According to CNN and multiple international reports, Turner passed away on May 6, 2026.
While an official cause of death was not immediately disclosed, Turner had been publicly battling Lewy body dementia, a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, movement, behavior, and cognitive abilities.
Ted Turner’s Health Battle
Turner revealed in 2018 that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, often referred to as LBD. During interviews at the time, he described symptoms including exhaustion and forgetfulness. The disease shares characteristics with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease and gradually worsens over time.
Recent reports had also indicated that Turner faced additional health complications in recent years, including pneumonia-related hospitalization in 2025, which can be especially dangerous for people suffering from dementia-related illnesses.
Who Was Ted Turner?
Born Robert Edward Turner III in Cincinnati, Ohio, Turner became one of the most influential media figures in history. He launched CNN in 1980, creating the world’s first 24-hour cable news channel and permanently changing how audiences consumed breaking news.
Beyond CNN, Turner built a massive media empire that included networks such as TBS, TNT, and Cartoon Network. He was also known for owning the Atlanta Braves and contributing heavily to environmental and philanthropic causes.