Jane Fonda paid a heartfelt tribute to her former husband, Ted Turner, following his death. However, according to a new report, the billionaire’s final will did not name her as a beneficiary. Instead, his five children were identified as the only listed heirs.
Ted Turner’s five children named heirs while ex-wife Jane Fonda is absent from his will
According to TMZ, Turner’s children filed a petition seeking appointment as executors of his estate. The filing identified Laura, Robert, Rhett, Reed, and Sara as his children. They were also the only individuals listed as heirs to his fortune.
The legal filing reportedly acknowledged Turner’s three marriages. His former wives included Judy Nye, Jane Smith, and Jane Fonda. Fonda and Turner married in 1991 before ending their marriage in 2001.
Despite their separation, Fonda continued speaking warmly about her former husband. She praised Turner over the years following their divorce. After his death, she also shared a tribute remembering their relationship.
However, her affection for Turner did not translate into an inheritance. According to the report, the document identified his five children as the listed heirs.
Turner’s estate planning reportedly involved numerous changes over more than two decades. His trust was first drafted in 2003, when he was 64. He subsequently amended it several times before his death.
According to TMZ, amendments were made in 2005, 2006, and 2007. Further changes followed in 2009 and in several subsequent years through 2025. The final amendment was reportedly made in 2025, one year before his death.
Turner also left instructions concerning the responsibilities of his heirs. He directed them to settle outstanding debts and handle business matters. The document also addressed the possibility of selling assets when necessary.
“I have confidence in the investments which will be found in my estate at the time of my death,” Turner wrote. He also indicated that his heirs could sell assets if needed. His instructions placed responsibility for managing the estate’s affairs on his children.
Turner died on May 6, 2026, at 87 years old. The reported provisions of his will have now drawn attention to his family arrangements.
