The billionaire founder of HBO and Cablevision, Charles Dolan, passed away at the age of 98, surrounded by his loved ones. Dolan, known for his visionary work in the entertainment industry, founded Sterling Manhattan Cable in 1962 and later established Home Box Office (HBO) in 1972, revolutionizing the way people watched television. In 1973, he founded Cablevision, a cable company that he chaired until his passing.
Dolan’s contributions to the media landscape extended beyond cable television. He also founded News12, the first 24-hour cable channel for local news in the US. His impact on the industry was significant, shaping the way we consume media today.
Born in New York City in 1926, Dolan’s career began at a young age, and he quickly made a name for himself in the business world. His family, with a net worth of approximately $5.4 billion, continues to carry on his legacy. Dolan is survived by six children, 19 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. His wife, Helen Ann Dolan, passed away in 2023.
Throughout his life, Dolan was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his dedication to innovation in the entertainment industry. His work laid the foundation for the modern media landscape, leaving a lasting impact on the way we consume content. Charles Dolan will be remembered as a trailblazer in the world of television and a beloved patriarch to his family.