Ted Turner, CNN founder and wrestling pioneer, dies at 85
Media mogul Ted Turner, the founder of CNN, TNT, and TBS, has died at his home in Tallahassee, Florida. His impact stretched beyond television into professional wrestling, where he reshaped the industry with World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Wrestlers and fans have since paid tribute to his legacy.
Turner first made his mark in wrestling by taking over Jim Crockett Promotions in the late 1980s. He rebranded it as World Championship Wrestling, turning it into a major rival to WWE. His investment in the sport gave wrestlers new opportunities, including Ric Flair, who later thanked him for his contributions.
Flair shared personal memories of Turner on social media, calling him 'the man that created cable before cable was cool.' He also praised Turner’s love for wrestling, which helped elevate the careers of many athletes. Beyond business, Flair highlighted a recent moment involving his daughter, Charlotte Flair, and a young fan. Scarlette Guillen, a girl with a rare form of brain cancer, became a fan of Charlotte Flair after watching her at WrestleMania 39. The two met at WrestleMania 41 and later bonded over FaceTime calls. Ric Flair commended his daughter’s kindness, saying her actions towards Scarlette were 'all that really mattered.' Charlotte Flair, a major star in wrestling, has inspired countless young girls with her career. Her connection with Scarlette Guillen has further strengthened her reputation as a role model.
Ted Turner’s death marks the end of an era for media and wrestling. His creation of WCW changed the sport, while his broader influence on cable television remains unmatched. Wrestlers like Ric Flair and fans alike continue to honour his lasting impact.
