CNN co-founder Robert Wussler, who at 36 became CBS’ youngest president, dies in Conn. at 73
By APFriday, June 11, 2010
Wussler, CNN co-founder and CBS exec, dies at 73
NEW YORK — Robert J. Wussler, a CNN co-founder who became the youngest president of the CBS television network when he took over at age 39, has died. He was 73.
Spokesman Arthur Sando says Wussler died June 5 at his home in Westport, Conn., after a long illness.
Wussler started his 21-year career at CBS working in the mailroom. He eventually became executive producer of CBS News, where he oversaw special projects including man’s landing on the moon.
In 1978, Wussler formed his own production company called Pyramid Enterprises. It created syndicated programming for the international marketplace, specializing in Japan, France and the former Soviet Union.
In 1980, Ted Turner recruited Wussler to join Turner Broadcasting Systems and to help develop CNN.
Wussler won seven Emmy awards.
(This version CORRECTS that Wussler became CBS president when he was 39, not 36, per new information from spokesman Arthur Sando.)
