Updated: May 7, 2026
Ted Turner, the visionary founder of CNN who transformed global media and championed environmental causes, passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 87. While his professional achievements — building a media empire and his passion for conservation — made headlines for decades, his greatest pride was his family. Turner had five children who have largely stepped out of the spotlight to pursue meaningful work, often continuing their father’s commitment to the planet.
In this post, we explore the lives of Ted Turner’s kids, their accomplishments, and how they carry forward his multifaceted legacy.
Table of Contents
Who Are Ted Turner’s Five Children?
Ted Turner welcomed his five children from two marriages. His first marriage to Judy Nye (1960–1964) produced two children: Laura and Teddy. His second marriage to Jane Shirley Smith (1965–1988) brought three more: Beau, Rhett, and Jennie.
Each child has carved their own path while sharing a common thread of environmental awareness and entrepreneurship instilled by their father.
Laura Turner Seydel: The Environmental Champion
As the eldest child, Laura Turner Seydel has become one of the most prominent voices in her family’s environmental advocacy. A dedicated philanthropist, she chairs the Captain Planet Foundation — an organization her father co-founded — and leads initiatives like Chattahoochee Riverkeeper and Mothers & Others for Clean Air.
- Key Achievements: Built one of the first LEED Gold-certified homes in the U.S.; her three adult children (John R., Vasser, and Laura “LE” Elizabeth) actively work in sustainability and activism.
- Notable Quote: She has often said her passion for the environment is “in my DNA,” crediting her father’s influence.
Laura exemplifies how Turner’s values of conservation translate across generations.
The Sons: Teddy, Beau, and Rhett Turner
Turner’s three sons have pursued diverse yet impactful careers:
- Robert Edward “Teddy” Turner IV: A skilled sailor and businessman, Teddy has worked in television production and yachting. He once ran for Congress, showcasing the family’s interest in public service.
- Reed Beauregard “Beau” Turner: Deeply involved in conservation, Beau has held leadership roles in the Turner Endangered Species Fund, focusing on wildlife protection and land stewardship.
- Rhett Turner: Known for creative pursuits, Rhett has worked as a filmmaker while supporting environmental projects alongside his siblings.
All three brothers have contributed to managing family lands and businesses, blending practicality with their father’s adventurous spirit.
Jennie Turner Garlington: The Youngest Sibling
Jennie Turner Garlington, the youngest child, rounds out the family as a private yet engaged member. Like her siblings, she participates in family philanthropic efforts and maintains a lower public profile while supporting causes close to the Turner legacy.
Together, the five siblings represent a balanced mix of activism, business, and creativity.
Ted Turner’s Children at a Glance
| Name | Mother | Known For | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laura Turner Seydel | Judy Nye | Environmental activism | Captain Planet Foundation, river conservation |
| Robert “Teddy” Turner IV | Judy Nye | Sailing, business, politics | Yachting, media production |
| Reed “Beau” Turner | Jane Smith | Wildlife conservation | Endangered Species Fund |
| Rhett Turner | Jane Smith | Filmmaking | Creative projects, environment |
| Jennie Turner Garlington | Jane Smith | Family philanthropy | Supporting Turner initiatives |
This table highlights their distinct contributions while underscoring the shared family ethos.
How Ted Turner’s Legacy Lives On Through His Kids
Turner famously pledged much of his fortune to philanthropy rather than leaving it all to his children, encouraging them to forge their own paths. His five kids, along with 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, continue this spirit through environmental work, sustainable business practices, and public service.
The family’s collective efforts in land conservation, renewable energy awareness, and education reflect Turner’s belief that business success and planetary health can — and should — go hand in hand. In interviews, his children often speak of hands-on experiences, from family trips focused on global issues to living in eco-friendly homes.
Practical Tips for Building a Strong Family Legacy (Inspired by the Turners)
- Prioritize shared values like environmental stewardship early on.
- Encourage independence while offering guidance — Turner’s approach fostered self-reliance.
- Use family resources for impact, not just inheritance.
- Stay connected through meaningful traditions and causes.
Conclusion: A Lasting Family Impact
Ted Turner kids prove that a powerful legacy isn’t just about wealth or fame — it’s about purpose. From Laura’s frontline activism to the brothers’ work in conservation and innovation, the Turner kids honor their father’s complex life with quiet determination and real-world results. As the world remembers Turner’s media revolution and environmental passion, his family stands as living proof of his most personal success.
In an era where influence often fades quickly, the Turner family’s ongoing commitment to a better planet ensures Ted Turner’s vision will endure for generations.