Rupert Murdoch recently made headlines when he announced his decision to retire from both News Corp and Fox News, signaling the end of an era in global media. With his wide ranging reach across multiple industries and his influence spanning multiple generations, many are asking: “What comes next?” Here is everything you need to know.
Who is Rupert Murdoch?
Rupert Murdoch, now 92 years old, remains one of the world’s most influential media figures. Starting his career at age eighteen in Adelaide Australia under his father’s newspaper umbrella, Murdoch gradually expanded his empire across continents and especially in America where Fox News made an indelible impactful mark on American politics and popular culture alike. Lovable by some and detested by others alike he left an indisputable legacy behind him that will live long into the future.
What has Lachlan Murdoch’s journey been like?
Lachlan Murdoch, Rupert’s son, is poised to step into his father’s enormous shoes. Lachlan’s journey has been both impressive and turbulent. Since Disney acquired 21st Century Fox in 2019, Lachlan has served as Fox Corp CEO. Prior to that he held the executive chairman title with 21st Century Fox while James served as CEO; Lachlan first found himself rising through News Corp, holding positions such as chairman of Fox Television Stations and publisher of The New York Post. A disagreement with Roger Ailes led to his temporary exit in 2005. However, he returned to the fold a decade later.
Why did James Murdoch resign from News Corp?
Lachlan Murdoch’s younger brother James Murdoch may best be remembered for his 2020 resignation from News Corp citing editorial content disputes at various outlets of News Corp’s news outlets as his reason. But this wasn’t his first momentous act within his family business; prior to leaving News Corp he held various roles within Star India and Sky and would continue holding those positions even after leaving News Corp in 2020. His involvement in the 2011 News of the World phone hacking scandal also made headlines, although both he and his father denied any wrongdoing.
What are Elisabeth Murdoch’s accomplishments?
Elisabeth Murdoch, another of Rupert’s children, has charted a somewhat different path. After starting in the family business, she ventured out on her own. Elisabeth’s most notable achievement is the creation of Shine, a production company that News Corp acquired in 2011. She later co-founded the global content company, Sister, solidifying her reputation as a formidable player in the media and entertainment sectors.
Who is Prudence Murdoch and her role in the Murdoch legacy?
Prudence Murdoch MacLeod, Rupert’s first child, has maintained a lower profile compared to her siblings. Although she has avoided being seen as the face of News Corp, she has held roles within News UK in various capacities for some time now – most recently serving on Times Newspapers board of directors as a subsidiary.
What about Rupert Murdoch’s youngest children?
Grace and Chloe Murdoch, Rupert’s children with third wife Wendi Deng, are currently focusing on their education. As students at Yale and Stanford respectively, they are beneficiaries of a trust that holds non-voting shares, ensuring their stake in the Murdoch dynasty.
With Rupert Murdoch’s exit, the media landscape is poised for change. As the next generation of Murdochs steps up, the world will be watching closely.
