Ted Turner is an American entrepreneur, television producer, media proprietor, and philanthropist. He is best known for founding the Cable News Network (CNN), the first 24-hour cable news channel. He was born Robert Edward Turner III on November 19, 1938, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Turner began his career by taking over his father's billboard business, Turner Outdoor Advertising, after his father's death in 1963. He expanded the business into a media empire, purchasing a struggling UHF television station in Atlanta in 1970, which he transformed into WTBS, the first "superstation". This success paved the way for the launch of CNN in 1980.
In addition to CNN, Turner founded other influential networks, including TNT and Cartoon Network. He also owned the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Hawks, significantly boosting their profiles. Turner was a pioneer in using satellite technology to broadcast his channels nationwide, revolutionizing the media landscape.
Turner is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He donated $1 billion to establish the United Nations Foundation and has been a strong advocate for environmental causes. He co-founded the Nuclear Threat Initiative to reduce the threat of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. Throughout his career, Turner has received numerous accolades, including a Peabody Award and induction into the U.S. Business Hall of Fame. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, his impact on media and philanthropy remains significant.