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Ted Turner, the founder of CNN, media mogul and philanthropist, died on May 6, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones, according to a news release from Turner Enterprises. He was 87. As public interest in his life and career rises, details surrounding Turner’s cause of death have also become a major topic of discussion.
In a tribute to Turner, Mark Thompson, the CNN Worldwide Chairman and CEO, said, “Ted was an intensely involved and committed leader, intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch and trust his own judgement. He was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN. Ted is the giant on whose shoulders we stand, and we will all take a moment today to recognize him and his impact on our lives and the world.”
Turner is survived by five children, 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His last marriage was with Academy Award-winning actress and activist Jane Fonda from 1991 to 2001.
Below, learn what happened to Turner and more about his media career.
How Old Was Ted Turner When He Died?
As previously noted, Turner was 87 when he died on May 6, 2026.
What Was Ted Turner’s Cause of Death?
No details about Turner’s cause of death have been disclosed at the time of publication. However, the late entrepreneur was living with Lewy body dementia, a progressive brain disorder.
Last year, he was hospitalized with a mild case of pneumonia but recovered shortly thereafter.
Did Ted Turner Have Health Issues?
Yes, as previously noted, Turner revealed that he had Lewy body dementia in 2018. In September of that year, he sat down with Ted Koppel on CBS Sunday Morning about his diagnosis.
“It’s a mild case of what people have as Alzheimer’s. It’s similar to that. But not nearly as bad,” Turner said, before pointing out, “Alzheimer’s is fatal. Thank goodness I don’t have that. But, I also have got, let’s – the one that’s – I can’t remember the name of it. Dementia. I can’t remember what my disease is.”
When asked what his symptoms were, the late television producer replied that he felt “tired” and “exhausted” while also experiencing forgetfulness at the time.
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