Charles Dolan, HBO and Cablevision founder, dies at 98, industry leaders pay tribute

Charles Dolan, the founder of HBO and Cablevision, passed away on December 28 at the age of 98. He was a pioneer in the cable industry, recognized for his vision in creating premium entertainment services long before cable became mainstream. Industry leaders, including John Malone and Brian Roberts, paid tribute to Dolan, highlighting his innovative spirit and integrity. They noted his significant contributions to the cable landscape, including launching the first regional sports network and the American Movie Classics channel. Dolan's journey began in the 1950s with a TV syndication company, leading to the launch of HBO in 1972. His efforts transformed television, setting the stage for the modern pay-TV marketplace and influencing countless media ventures.