Ted Turner, Influential Media Mogul and Sports Franchise Owner, Passes Away at 87

Ted Turner: A Legacy of Innovation in Sports and Media

Ted Turner, the influential media mogul and former owner of the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, and World Championship Wrestling (WCW), has passed away at age 87. His death was announced on Wednesday by his company, Turner Enterprises.

A Visionary in Broadcasting

Turner's impact on sports and media began with his pioneering work in cable television. He founded CNN, the first 24-hour news channel, and TBS, the first cable superstation, changing the way news and sports were consumed in America. Known as a brilliant businessman, his strategic foresight revolutionized the Atlanta Braves, turning them into what he proudly called 'America's Team.' Under his stewardship, the Braves won the World Series in 1995, marking a historic achievement for the franchise and Atlanta itself.

The Braves Journey Under Turner

Buying the Braves in 1976 for a reported $12 million, Turner leveraged his television platforms to give the team a national audience. Initially, the Braves faced dismal performances on the field, but Turner's innovative marketing strategies, which included creative promotions and expansive broadcast plans, helped revitalize the franchise’s fortunes. He even made headlines for managing the team for a single game in 1977 before the National League curtailed his ambitious experiment.

As the Braves' fortunes improved, thanks in part to Turner's hiring of Bobby Cox as manager in 1978, the team saw unprecedented success, securing 14 consecutive division titles beginning in 1991. Turner’s visionary leadership not only led to a World Series victory but established the Braves as a major player in baseball.

Philanthropy and Other Ventures

Outside of baseball, Turner’s ownership of the Atlanta Hawks from 1977 to 1982 was less fruitful, as the team only managed to win a single playoff series under his guidance. Additionally, he founded WCW in 1988, which became WWE’s chief rival in wrestling. With its groundbreaking "Monday Nitro" program, WCW dominated television ratings for an impressive 83 weeks.

In 1977, Turner also triumphed as a yachtsman, winning the prestigious America's Cup race. His contributions to media and sports earned him accolades, including being named Time Magazine's "Man of the Year" in 1991 for his innovative leadership.

Turner is survived by five children, 14 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, leaving a profound legacy that reshaped sports entertainment and media.