Oscar-winning actress and activist Jane Fonda paid tribute to her former husband, media mogul Ted Turner, following his death on Wednesday, May 6, after a battle with Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological disorder. He was 87.
In a lengthy Instagram post, Fonda reflected on their decade-long relationship and described Turner as someone who changed her life “completely.”
“He swept into my life, a gloriously handsome, deeply romantic, swashbuckling pirate, and I’ve never been the same,” she wrote.
Fonda said Turner made her feel needed and cared for, something she described as “transformative,” especially since that affection came from the founder of CNN and Turner Classic Movies.
“Ted Turner helped me believe in myself. He gave me confidence. I think I did the same for him, but that’s what women are raised to do. Men like Ted aren’t supposed to express need and vulnerability. That was Ted’s greatest strength, I believe,” she expressed.
The actress also noted how Turner became one of her greatest teachers, sharing his knowledge about nature, wildlife conservation, business, and strategy.
“Next to Katharine Hepburn, Ted was the most competitive person I have ever met, and that was fascinating to witness,” said Fonda. “Ted was challenging, but I’ve always been up for a challenge, and with Ted, it was almost always worth it.”
The actress also praised Turner’s environmental efforts, saying she imagines him in heaven reunited with the wildlife species he helped save from extinction.
“I loved Ted with all my heart,” she expressed. “Rest in peace, dearest Ted. You are loved, and you will be remembered.”
Fonda also acknowledged Turner’s five children, whom she became a stepmother to during their marriage, saying that she continues to love them to this day.
Fonda and Turner began dating after the actress’ split from politician Tom Hayden in 1988. Turner reportedly called Fonda right away and asked her out, eventually leading to their marriage in 1991.
Their relationship, however, faced challenges behind closed doors. Shortly after their wedding, Fonda discovered Turner had been unfaithful. The couple later underwent counseling and remained together for nearly a decade before announcing their separation in 2000. Their divorce was finalised in 2001. – Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network
