Amanpour

This week we remember when giants strode this earth - the life and legacy of CNN founder Ted Turner.

First our conversation from his Montana ranch in 2015, where he told me about the uphill battle to make 24-hour news, his fight to conserve the planet and banish nuclear weapons, and his difficult relationship with his father.

Then memories from veteran journalist and author Walter Isaacson, about his years as Chairman and CEO of CNN under our founder. We also discuss his new book on America’s founding principles and the greatest sentence ever written.

Plus, we turn to Christiane’s archive, as Britain’s broadcasting legend David Attenborough celebrates his 100th birthday. We hear about his greatest moments bringing the wonders of the natural world into our living rooms.        

Air date: May 9, 2026

Guests:

Ted Turner (archive)

Walter Isaacson

David Attenborough (archive)
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As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the country is confronting deep political division and growing questions about its identity. In his new book, “The Greatest Sentence Ever Written,” former CNN Chairman Walter Isaacson joins the show to re-examine the second line of the Declaration and how its ideals continue to shape what it means to be American today. He also reflects on CNN’s founder Ted Turner, who passed away earlier this week. 

Also on today's show: naturalist Sir David Attenborough; author Sherrie Rollins Westie 

 
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At today's meeting between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pope Leo, the two discussed their "shared commitment to promoting peace and human dignity." Human dignity is often one of the first casualties of war: Iran reports more than three thousand people were killed during the US and Israeli attacks.  Very few reporters or Western officials have been permitted into Iran to see the devastation, making the experience of today’s first guest all the more important. Mirjana Spoljaric, the president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, recently visited Tehran to meet with government officials. 

Also on today's show: Alexander Gabuev, Director, Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center; US House Democrat Shomari Figures; actor/musician Rita Wilson 

 
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CNN founder Ted Turner has died at the age of 87. An innovator and an icon, he revolutionized the television business by creating the first 24-hour news channel. Much more than a media mogul, Turner also was an environmentalist, a peace activist, a champion sailor, and a philanthropist. Christiane worked closely with him and joins the show to discuss his life and legacy. 

Also on today's show: Danny Citrinowicz, former head of Iran branch of Israel’s military intelligence; author Rhae Lynn Barnes 

 
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Experts assess whether the US-Iran ceasefire is holding as tensions escalate around the Strait of Hormuz and “Project Freedom,” with analysis from F. Gregory Gause III on regional dynamics involving Iran, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. The World Food Programme warns of a growing global hunger crisis tied to the conflict, while Nancy Northup discusses the Supreme Court’s move to preserve access to abortion pills. Plus, Barbara F. Walter examines the rising tide of political violence in the United States.

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