Jane Fonda Pays Tribute to Ted Turner Following His Death at 87

Ted Turner, the visionary founder of CNN and Turner Classic Movies, has died at 87. Turner Enterprises confirmed his passing on Wednesday, May 6, noting that he was surrounded by family at the time.

Jane Fonda, Turner's ex-wife, has shared an extensive personal statement reflecting on their relationship and his legacy. The pair were married on December 21, 1991, and remained together for approximately ten years before their 2001 divorce.

In her tribute posted to Instagram, Fonda described Turner as a transformative presence in her life. She recalled how his arrival was dramatic and romantic, noting that his willingness to express vulnerability and need—qualities uncommon in men of his stature—proved to be his greatest strength. Beyond their personal connection, Fonda credited him with building her confidence and helping her believe in herself.

Fonda emphasized Turner's intellect and strategic brilliance, attributing much of his success to both natural talent and his deep study of classical history, including the Peloponnesian War and the military tactics of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. She noted that his sailing expertise further refined these strategic abilities, which he then applied to his business ventures.

The actress highlighted Turner's intensely competitive nature, comparing it to that of Katharine Hepburn. She described their time together as perpetually challenging, whether competing over ski runs, land ownership, or other pursuits—dynamics she found energizing rather than discouraging.

Fonda also referenced a conversation with their mutual friend Ron Olson, who characterized Turner as an exceptional teacher who inspired others to think ambitiously while acting conscientiously. She noted that Turner's environmental conservation efforts resonated deeply with her, mentioning his role in bringing numerous species back from the brink of extinction, including black-footed ferrets, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, Mexican gray wolves, and Yellowstone wolves.

The couple did not have biological children together, but Fonda became stepmother to Turner's five children. She reflected on the complexity of their family structure and expressed enduring affection for all of them.

In her closing remarks, Fonda painted a spiritual image of Turner reunited in the afterlife with the wildlife species he worked to preserve.

Turner had publicly disclosed his diagnosis with Lewy body dementia approximately eight years prior to his death. The degenerative neurological condition affects cognitive function and bodily processes, progressively worsening over time. No specific cause of death has been released by his family.