Charles Dolan, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the television landscape in the United States, has passed away at the age of 98. As the founder of what would eventually become HBO and the patriarch of a significant media and sports empire, Dolan made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His death was announced on Sunday in the family-owned newspaper, Newsday.

Dolan's journey to success began in the 1950s when he started distributing sports and industrial films. He later moved to New York, where he recognized the potential of cable TV, particularly in Manhattan, where tall buildings disrupted broadcast signals. In 1964, Dolan struck a deal with New York City to wire several buildings in Manhattan for cable, paving the way for the widespread adoption of cable television.

His innovative spirit and business acumen led to the creation of Home Box Office (HBO), which became a premier destination for movies and original programming. Dolan eventually sold his cable service and HBO to focus on building Cablevision, which grew into a leading provider of television and internet services in the northeastern United States. The Dolan family's media empire also includes Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks and Rangers, and AMC Networks.

According to Forbes, Dolan's net worth was estimated at $5.4 billion at the time of his death. His legacy as a pioneer in the cable TV industry and a savvy businessman will be remembered for generations. Despite controversies surrounding the family's management of the Knicks and Rangers, Dolan's influence on the entertainment industry remains undeniable.