Robert Edward Turner III, also known as Ted Turner, crafted a strong reputation in the media world. Best known as the founder of CNN, Turner’s death left his colleagues in mourning. However, his legacy will live on, as will his impact on cable news and the success and net worth that he built over the past few decades.
Who Was Ted Turner?
Turner was a media proprietor, businessman, philanthropist and the creator of CNN. He started the 24-hour cable news network in 1980.
How Old Was Ted Turner When He Died?
Turner was 87 when he died on May 6, 2026.
What Is Ted Turner’s Net Worth as of 2026?
Turner had an estimated net worth of $2.8 billion as of May 2026, according to Forbes.
The late businessman started building his fortune after taking control of his late father’s billboard company, which was known as Turner Advertising. He rebranded it to Turner Broadcasting. In 1996, he sold the company to Time Warner for $7.3 billion. However, his fortune fluctuated after Time Warner purchased AOL in 2001, and shares decreased.
Did Ted Turner Have Children?
Yes. Turner is survived by five children, 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Was Ted Turner Married When He Died?
No, but Turner was married multiple times throughout his life. His most famous marriage was to his third wife, actress and activist Jane Fonda, from 1991 to 2001. The two were quite the unexpected pair, as he was known for being a conservative billionaire, while the Monster in Law star is one of Hollywood’s most active liberal voices.
Just six months before Turner’s death, Fonda spoke highly of him during an appearance at a charity event in Atlanta. She credited her late ex-husband with driving the success of their charity, Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power and Potential.
[The charity] never would have happened if it wasn’t for Ted,” Fonda said at the November 2025 event. “It was a very challenging time in Georgia. Had I not been with Ted, this was something, had he not stood by me with his love and support, we never would have survived. Ted’s not here, but he is here in my heart and I know he is here in a lot of our hearts.”
Before marrying Fonda in 1991, Turner was married to his second wife, Jane Shirley Smith, from 1965 to 1988. His first marriage was to ex-wife Julia Gale Nye. They wed in 1960 and divorced four years later.
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