Rupert Murdoch and Ted Turner were business rivals — and their Fox News and CNN news networks remain fierce competitors.

But Murdoch and Turner were also friends. In a statement following news about Turner’s death , Murdoch gave credit to Turner for having the vision to launch CNN in 1980.

“Ted Turner’s vision for 24-hour cable news transformed the media industry and gave viewers everywhere a front seat to witness history unfold,” Murdoch said in a statement. “His impact as a trailblazer has left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape. He was a great American and friend.”

Murdoch, 95, currently serves as chairman emeritus of Fox Corp.…