NewYork: Charles F. Dolan, the visionary behind HBO and Cablevision Systems Corp., passed away peacefully at 98.
His family confirmed his death was due to natural causes in a statement issued Saturday, according to Newsday.
“We mourn the loss of our beloved father and patriarch, Charles Dolan,” the family’s statement read.
Dolan was instrumental in launching Home Box Office in 1972, later becoming the global brand known as HBO.
He founded Cablevision in 1973 and AMC in 1984, leaving a lasting legacy in the media industry.
Dolan also started News 12, the first 24-hour local cable news channel in the US, based in New York.
Cablevision Sale and Business Ventures
In 2016, Dolan finalized the sale of Cablevision to Altice, earning $17.7 billion for the company.
Dolan’s expansive media influence included owning stakes in Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, Knicks, and Rangers.
His ventures connected entertainment and media while advancing local and national broadcasting to new heights.
Charles Dolan hailed from Cleveland and had once studied at John Carroll University before pursuing his entrepreneurial path.
Dolan’s residence in Cove Neck Village on Long Island was the center of many professional accomplishments.
He became a significant figure in shaping how Americans consume television and local news media.
A Family Legacy in Media and Entertainment
James L. Dolan, one of his sons, led Cablevision as CEO from 1995 until the 2016 sale to Altice.
Currently, James Dolan is executive chairman and CEO of Madison Square Garden Sports Corp.
Patrick Dolan, another son, reclaimed control of Newsday Media Group following its brief ownership by Altice.
Patrick purchased 75% of Newsday back in July 2016 and gained full control by 2018.
Dolan’s media empire brought his family into leadership roles across major news and sports industries.
His enduring family legacy continues to shape media ownership and influence in the United States.
Advocate for Research and Philanthropy
Charles Dolan co-founded The Lustgarten Foundation in Uniondale, New York, a leader in pancreatic cancer research.
His contributions reflected his dedication to impactful causes beyond the world of media and broadcasting.
The organization honors his name and legacy by advancing scientific discoveries and patient care initiatives.
Throughout his life, Dolan earned recognition as both a media innovator and philanthropist.
His ability to lead significant media and entertainment shifts speaks volumes about his character and foresight.
Survived by six children, 19 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, his family continues his lasting legacy.
Fond Memories of a Remarkable Life
Dolan’s wife, Helen Ann Dolan, predeceased him in 2023, marking the end of a shared journey in life.
Forbes estimated Dolan and his family’s net worth at $5.4 billion, a testament to his success.
Dolan’s profound impact will live on through his contributions to media, philanthropy, and community leadership.
He is remembered for his vision, tenacity, and role as a pioneer of American cable broadcasting.
From HBO to Madison Square Garden, his life touched countless lives and reshaped media history.
As his family mourns, the world acknowledges the incredible contributions of Charles Dolan.
