Updated: May 7, 2026
Ted Turner, the visionary founder of CNN who revolutionized global news and became one of America’s most passionate environmentalists, passed away on May 6, 2026, at age 87. While his business empire and bold personality made headlines for decades, his greatest personal legacy may well be his five children. Far from chasing the spotlight, they have quietly stepped up to champion conservation, philanthropy, and responsible stewardship of the planet.
Raised with a strong work ethic despite their father’s success, Ted’s kids learned early that true wealth lies in protecting natural resources for future generations. Today, they continue his work through family foundations, hands-on projects, and leadership roles. Here’s an insightful look at Ted Turner’s children and how they are carrying forward his extraordinary vision.
Table of Contents
The Turner Family: Roots of a Shared Passion
Ted Turner had five children from his first two marriages. Laura and Teddy (Robert Edward Turner IV) came from his marriage to Judy Nye, while Rhett, Beau (Reed Beauregard), and Jennie (Sara Jean Garlington) were born during his marriage to Jane Shirley Smith.
Despite a high-profile life, Turner emphasized independence, hard work, and love for nature. The children grew up spending time on family ranches, learning about wildlife, and understanding the importance of giving back. This upbringing shaped them into committed environmentalists who prioritize impact over fame.
Key facts at a glance:
| Name | Birth Order Role | Key Focus Areas | Notable Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laura Turner Seydel | Oldest | Environmental activism, education | Chair, Captain Planet Foundation; Chattahoochee Riverkeeper |
| Teddy Turner | Second | Education, sailing, business | High school teacher; Turner Enterprises board |
| Rhett Turner | Third | Filmmaking, photography, conservation | President, Red Sky Productions |
| Beau Turner | Fourth | Wildlife conservation | Chairman, Turner Endangered Species Fund |
| Jennie Turner Garlington | Youngest | Philanthropy, media | PBS host of EcoSense for Living; Foundation trustee |
This family table highlights their diverse yet unified paths under one powerful mission.
Laura Turner Seydel: Leading with Heart and Action
As the eldest, Laura has become the most visible face of the family’s environmental efforts. A dedicated activist, she chairs the Captain Planet Foundation — inspired by the animated series her father supported — and has founded initiatives like Mothers & Others for Clean Air to combat pollution and asthma in Atlanta.
Laura often credits her father with teaching her that “taking action” matters more than talk. She serves on multiple boards, including Project Drawdown and Waterkeeper Alliance, blending policy, education, and community work. Married for over 30 years with three children, she exemplifies how the Turner values flow into the next generation.
The Brothers: Teddy, Rhett, and Beau – Diverse Paths, Common Ground
Each son brings a unique flavor to the family legacy:
- Teddy Turner pursued business, media production at CNN, and professional sailing before becoming a high school economics and government teacher in Charleston, South Carolina. He has run for Congress and remains deeply involved with Turner Enterprises and local environmental boards. His grounded approach reminds many that the Turner spirit values practical education and independence.
- Rhett Turner channels creative energy into filmmaking and photography. As president of Red Sky Productions, he produces content that raises awareness about conservation. Like his siblings, he spent summers working on family properties, building appreciation for honest labor and the outdoors.
- Beau Turner focuses intensely on biodiversity. He serves as Chairman of the Turner Endangered Species Fund and Director of Natural Resources for Turner Enterprises. His work protects wildlife across the family’s vast land holdings, continuing Ted’s commitment to large-scale conservation.
These brothers prove that legacy isn’t about replication — it’s about applying core principles in ways that fit individual strengths.
Jennie Turner Garlington: Amplifying Solutions Through Storytelling
The youngest sibling, Jennie, excels at communication and practical environmentalism. As executive producer and host of the PBS series EcoSense for Living (now in its tenth season), she shares actionable tips for sustainable living that save money while protecting the planet. She also serves as a trustee for family foundations, ensuring Ted’s philanthropic vision endures.
Jennie’s work bridges awareness and everyday action, making complex issues accessible to families everywhere.
Conclusion: A Living Legacy Beyond Billions
Ted Turner’s children inherited more than financial resources — they received a blueprint for using success to create positive change. With their father’s passing, the five siblings stand ready to expand the Turner Foundation’s impact, manage extensive conservation lands, and inspire others to act.
In an era of climate challenges, their low-key but determined efforts offer hope. They remind us that real influence comes not just from building empires, but from protecting what truly matters: our planet and each other.
Whether through policy, education, film, or hands-on conservation, Ted Turner’s kids honor their father’s bold spirit. As we remember the man who brought 24-hour news to the world, we can also celebrate the family ensuring his environmental dreams thrive for generations to come.