Charles Dolan, a pioneering figure in television and cable industry, passed away at age 98 from natural causes while surrounded by family. As the founder of HBO and Cablevision, Dolan's innovations shaped modern entertainment.

Starting in 1962, Dolan established Sterling Manhattan Cable, securing rights to wire lower Manhattan for cable television in 1965. His entrepreneurial journey led to creating several influential media enterprises:

• Founded HBO (Home Box Office Inc.)
• Established Cablevision Systems Corp
• Created American Movie Classics (AMC) in 1984
• Launched News 12, the first 24-hour local news cable channel in New York City

In 1994, Dolan expanded into sports entertainment by acquiring Madison Square Garden through Cablevision, including the New York Rangers (NHL) and New York Knicks (NBA). The company completed full ownership in 1997 with a total investment of $1.75 billion.

His business acumen culminated in the 2015 sale of Cablevision to Altice for $17.7 billion, while maintaining ownership of AMC and Madison Square Garden. At the time of his passing, Forbes estimated his net worth at $5.4 billion.

Dolan's legacy continues through his family, including son James Dolan, who serves as executive chair and CEO of Madison Square Garden Sports Corp., and son Patrick Dolan, owner and publisher of Newsday. He is survived by six children, 19 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, and Sphere Entertainment confirmed that Dolan's passing will not affect the family's ownership of these enterprises, ensuring his vision continues through the next generation.

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