Ted Turner dies; baseball programs and players shift
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Atlanta — Ted Turner, founder of CNN and former owner of the Atlanta Braves, died on May 6, 2026, at age 87, his family said Wednesday. Turner launched CNN on June 1, 1980, built TBS into a national superstation that broadcast Braves games across the country, and sold the franchise after the team's 1995 World Series victory.
Philadelphia and Chattanooga developments this week underscore ongoing changes in baseball: the Philadelphia Phillies' shortstop Trea Turner has struggled in recent games, a pattern linked to a difficult April that prompted a managerial change earlier this season. In Chattanooga, the McCallie School announced Thursday that long-time coach Tim Costo will step down after 2026 and assistant Matt Allen will be promoted to head coach.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 1970s: Ted Turner acquires the Atlanta Braves and begins national broadcasts via TBS.
- 2. June 1, 1980: CNN launches as the first 24-hour cable news network.
- 3. 1995–1996: Braves win World Series (1995); Turner sells the team the following year.
- 4. May 6, 2026: Turner dies at age 87, according to Turner Enterprises.
- 5. This week (May 2026): McCallie School announces coaching transition; Phillies deal with player struggles and prior managerial change.
Why it matters
Ted Turner's death marks the end of an era in media and sports. His legacy, from launching CNN to owning the Braves, has shaped how we consume news and baseball. If you're a Braves fan or a CNN viewer, you've felt his impact. Keep an eye on how these institutions honor Turner.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
