Ted Turner’s CNN ‘Doomsday Video’ Resurfaces After Media Mogul’s Death

Ted Turner, the late media mogul who passed away at the age of 87, left behind a chilling legacy in the form of a “doomsday video” commissioned for CNN. This eerie clip, created shortly after CNN’s launch in 1980, features military bands performing the Christian hymn “Nearer, My God, to Thee” outside the network’s original Atlanta headquarters. Turner insisted that CNN would remain on the air until civilization itself collapsed, symbolized by the playing of this haunting video.

The video, long kept as a legend within CNN, was only made public in 2015 when former intern Michael Ballaban leaked a copy he found during his time at the network. The footage quickly gained a cult status online, with viewers describing it as “chilling” and “terrifyingly sad.” The resurfacing of this tape coincided with tributes pouring in after Turner’s death on Wednesday.

Known as “The Mouth of the South,” Turner was a driving force behind the creation of CNN and Turner Broadcasting, revolutionizing television news by establishing the first 24-hour cable news network in 1980. His influence extended beyond news media into other realms, including sports with his ownership of the Atlanta Braves and his yachting achievements.

Mark Thompson, chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, praised Turner as “the presiding spirit of CNN” and lauded his fearless leadership and commitment. Turner’s legacy continues to impact the media landscape today, with many recognizing his contributions as pioneering and groundbreaking.