Ted Turner

Early Life and Education

Robert Edward "Ted" Turner III was born on November 19, 1938, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the son of Florence (née Rooney) and Robert Edward Turner II, a billboard magnate. Turner spent his early years in Cincinnati before his family moved to Savannah, Georgia. He attended the McCallie School, a preparatory school in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he excelled academically and athletically. Turner later enrolled at Brown University, where he studied Classics and was a member of the sailing team. However, he was expelled before completing his degree due to disciplinary reasons.

Career Beginnings

After leaving Brown University, Turner joined his father's business, Turner Advertising Company, which specialized in outdoor advertising. In 1963, after his father's tragic suicide, Turner took over the company and began expanding its operations. Under his leadership, the company grew significantly, and he eventually renamed it Turner Communications Group.

Media Empire

Turner Broadcasting System

In 1970, Turner purchased a failing UHF television station in Atlanta, WJRJ (Channel 17), which he rebranded as WTCG (Watch This Channel Grow). Turner transformed the station by acquiring old movies, sitcoms, and sports events to fill the programming schedule. In 1976, he made a groundbreaking move by uplinking WTCG to satellite, creating the first "superstation" and reaching a national audience. The station was later renamed WTBS, and Turner Broadcasting System (TBS) was born.

CNN

In 1980, Turner launched the Cable News Network (CNN), the first 24-hour news channel. CNN revolutionized news broadcasting by providing continuous coverage of breaking news events. The network gained international prominence during the Gulf War in 1991, with its live coverage from Baghdad. CNN's success paved the way for other 24-hour news channels and solidified Turner's reputation as a media innovator.

Turner Network Television and Other Ventures

In 1988, Turner launched Turner Network Television (TNT), which initially focused on classic movies and later expanded to original programming. Turner also acquired the MGM film library, which provided valuable content for his networks. In 1992, he launched Cartoon Network, catering to younger audiences with a mix of classic and original animated content.

Sports Ownership and Contributions

Atlanta Braves

In 1976, Turner purchased the Atlanta Braves, a Major League Baseball team. Under his ownership, the Braves experienced significant success, including winning the World Series in 1995. Turner was known for his hands-on approach, even managing the team for a brief period in 1977.

Atlanta Hawks

Turner also acquired the Atlanta Hawks, an NBA team, in 1977. He played a crucial role in promoting the team and increasing its popularity. His ownership of both the Braves and the Hawks helped solidify Atlanta's status as a major sports city.

Environmental and Philanthropic Efforts

United Nations Foundation

In 1997, Turner made a historic $1 billion donation to establish the United Nations Foundation, aimed at supporting UN causes and initiatives. This donation remains one of the largest individual charitable contributions in history.

Turner Foundation

Turner also founded the Turner Foundation, which focuses on environmental conservation and sustainability. The foundation supports various initiatives, including wildlife conservation, renewable energy, and efforts to combat climate change.

Nuclear Threat Initiative

In 2001, Turner co-founded the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) with former U.S. Senator Sam Nunn. The organization aims to reduce global threats from nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons. NTI works on policy advocacy, threat reduction programs, and public education.

Personal Life

Turner has been married three times and has five children. His most notable marriage was to actress Jane Fonda, which lasted from 1991 to 2001. Turner is known for his outspoken personality and has been involved in various controversies throughout his career. Despite this, he remains a respected figure in the media industry and philanthropy.

Legacy

Ted Turner's impact on the media landscape is undeniable. His innovations in cable television, particularly the creation of CNN, have left a lasting legacy. Turner's philanthropic efforts, especially in environmental conservation and global security, continue to influence and inspire.