Charles Dolan, the billionaire founder of HBO and Cablevision, passed away on Saturday at the age of 98 from natural causes, surrounded by his loved ones. The Dolan family announced his death in a statement to Newsday, a news outlet owned by his son Patrick. Charles will be remembered as a trailblazer in the television industry and a devoted family man, leaving behind six children, 19 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. It is unclear where Dolan was at the time of his death, but he primarily lived in Cove Neck Village on Long Island, New York.
Dolan and his family have a fortune estimated at $5.4 billion, with controlling stakes in AMC Networks and Madison Square Garden’s entertainment and sports companies, including the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers. Dolan’s son James currently runs these organizations. Born in Cleveland in 1926, Dolan made his move to New York City in the 1950s with his wife Helen to work in the television news industry. He built his initial wealth by securing wiring rights in lower Manhattan and went on to found HBO’s predecessor, which he later sold in 1973 to fund the creation of Cablevision. In 1984, he established the American Movie Classics network, which later became AMC Networks.
Dolan’s son James served as the CEO of Cablevision until its sale in 2016 to Altice for $17.7 billion. Additionally, Charles Dolan founded the Lustgarten Foundation, the world’s largest private funder of pancreatic cancer research, and served as its chairman emeritus. Dolan leaves behind a lasting legacy in the television industry and philanthropic community. His impact on the media landscape and dedication to advancing cancer research will be remembered for years to come.
Following his passing, the Dolan family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences from friends, colleagues, and fans. As a true pioneer in the television industry, Charles Dolan’s contributions have left a lasting mark on the entertainment world. His dedication to innovation and commitment to family values have set a precedent for future generations to follow. The Dolan family’s wealth and influence in the entertainment and sports sectors will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
As news of Charles Dolan’s death spreads, tributes pour in from those who knew him personally and professionally. Colleagues praise his vision, leadership, and philanthropic efforts, highlighting his impact on the television industry and beyond. Dolan’s legacy as a trailblazer in cable television and sports entertainment will be celebrated for generations to come. The Dolan family’s commitment to carrying on his work and values ensures that his influence will continue to be felt in the media and charitable sectors. Through their ownership of AMC Networks and Madison Square Garden, the Dolan family will continue to uphold Charles Dolan’s legacy in the years ahead.
