50 Facts About Ted Turner

Early Life and Education

Ted Turner, a name synonymous with media mogul, has a fascinating background. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early years and education.

1. Ted Turner was born on November 19, 1938, in Cincinnati, Ohio.
2. His full name is Robert Edward Turner III.
3. Ted's father, Robert Edward Turner II, owned a successful billboard advertising company.
4. He attended the McCallie School, a private boys' preparatory school in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
5. Turner went to Brown University but was expelled for having a female student in his dorm room.
6. Despite his expulsion, he later received an honorary degree from Brown University.

Career Beginnings

Turner's career didn't start with media. He had humble beginnings that shaped his future endeavors.

7. After his father's suicide in 1963, Ted took over the family billboard business.
8. He expanded the business, making it one of the largest outdoor advertising companies in the Southeast.
9. Turner bought a failing UHF television station in Atlanta, WJRJ, which he later renamed WTBS.
10. WTBS became the first "superstation," broadcasting via satellite to cable systems nationwide.
11. He founded the Turner Broadcasting System (TBS) in 1970.
12. Ted Turner launched CNN (Cable News Network) in 1980, the first 24-hour news channel.

Media Empire

Turner's vision and innovation led to the creation of a media empire that changed the landscape of television.

13. He acquired the MGM film library in 1986, which included classic films and cartoons.
14. Turner Network Television (TNT) was launched in 1988, featuring classic movies and original programming.
15. He created Cartoon Network in 1992, dedicated to animated programming.
16. Turner Classic Movies (TCM) was launched in 1994, showcasing classic films without commercials.
17. Ted Turner merged his company with Time Warner in 1996, becoming its largest shareholder.
18. He briefly served as Vice Chairman of Time Warner after the merger.

Personal Life

Ted Turner's personal life is as colorful as his professional one. Here are some interesting tidbits.

19. He has been married three times and has five children.
20. His most famous marriage was to actress Jane Fonda from 1991 to 2001.
21. Turner is an avid sailor and won the America's Cup in 1977.
22. He has a passion for bison and owns the largest private herd in the world.
23. Turner is a dedicated environmentalist and philanthropist.
24. He founded the Turner Foundation in 1990, focusing on environmental causes.

Philanthropy and Environmentalism

Turner's contributions to philanthropy and environmentalism are significant and impactful.

25. He donated $1 billion to the United Nations in 1997, creating the United Nations Foundation.
26. Turner established the Nuclear Threat Initiative in 2001 to reduce global threats from nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons.
27. He has given millions to support wildlife conservation and land preservation.
28. Turner owns over 2 million acres of land in the United States, making him one of the largest individual landowners.
29. He has been awarded numerous honors for his environmental efforts, including the Audubon Medal.

Legacy and Influence

Ted Turner's influence extends beyond media and philanthropy. His legacy continues to inspire.

30. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1992.
31. Turner received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004.
32. He has been named Time Magazine's Man of the Year.
33. Turner was awarded the Bower Award for Business Leadership in 1998.
34. He has written an autobiography titled "Call Me Ted," published in 2008.
35. Turner has been a vocal advocate for population control and sustainable living.

Fun Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and lesser-known facts about Ted Turner.

36. He once owned the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Hawks.
37. Turner made a cameo appearance in the film "Gettysburg" (1993).
38. He has a restaurant chain called Ted's Montana Grill, specializing in bison meat.
39. Turner is known for his outspoken and sometimes controversial statements.
40. He has a keen interest in history and has funded several historical documentaries.
41. Turner has been a strong supporter of space exploration and has invested in related ventures.
42. He has a passion for poetry and often quotes famous poets.
43. Turner has been involved in various sailing competitions worldwide.
44. He has been a proponent of renewable energy and has invested in wind and solar power projects.
45. Turner has a unique sense of humor and is known for his practical jokes.
46. He has been a mentor to many young entrepreneurs and media professionals.
47. Turner has received honorary degrees from several universities for his contributions to media and philanthropy.
48. He has been a guest lecturer at various institutions, sharing his experiences and insights.
49. Turner has been featured in numerous documentaries and interviews, highlighting his life and achievements.
50. Despite his immense success, Turner remains humble and continues to work towards making the world a better place.

Ted Turner's Legacy

Ted Turner’s impact on media, sports, and philanthropy is undeniable. From founding CNN, the first 24-hour news network, to owning the Atlanta Braves, his ventures have shaped industries and entertained millions. Turner’s commitment to environmental causes, like donating $1 billion to the United Nations, showcases his dedication to making the world a better place.

His innovative spirit and willingness to take risks have left a lasting mark. Turner’s influence extends beyond business; his efforts in conservation and global peace initiatives highlight a multifaceted legacy. Whether through media, sports, or philanthropy, Ted Turner’s contributions continue to inspire and influence future generations.

Understanding these facts about Ted Turner gives us a glimpse into the life of a man who dared to dream big and act even bigger. His story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and generosity.