Robert Edward "Ted" Turner III
- Born:
- November 19, 1938, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Media Proprietor, Television Producer, Businessman, Philanthropist
Early Life and Education
- Attended The McCallie School, a military prep school in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
- Expelled from Brown University shortly before graduation. He majored in Classics.
- Inherited Turner Advertising Company, a billboard advertising business, from his father.
Career and Major Achievements
- Transformed Turner Advertising Company into Turner Communications Group.
- Purchased UHF television station WTCG in Atlanta, Georgia, which he later renamed WTBS.
- Launched CNN (Cable News Network) in 1980, the first 24-hour cable news channel.
- Founded TBS (Turner Broadcasting System), which grew to include TNT, Cartoon Network, and other channels.
- Acquired Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in 1986, later selling it back but retaining the MGM film library.
- Played a significant role in popularizing cable television.
- Established the Goodwill Games, an international multi-sport event.
Notable Works
The scope of Ted Turner's biography extends beyond television programming. He significantly influenced media consumption and global communication.
Legacy and Impact
- Revolutionized the television industry with the creation of 24-hour news and entertainment channels.
- Pioneered the concept of basic cable television.
- Influenced the development of global media conglomerates.
- Made substantial contributions to conservation and environmentalism.
- Committed significant philanthropic efforts through the United Nations Foundation and other organizations.