In brief
As Rupert Murdoch navigates his twilight years, his family faces deep divisions over the future of their empire. The strained relationships between his children and their exclusion from leadership roles complicate the succession narrative. This article explores the implications of these rivalries, examining Lachlan Murdoch's rise amidst family tensions and the forced sell-off of shares by his estranged siblings.
Christmas is a time when families get together if they can - and, until this year, the Murdochs were no different. With members of the media dynasty spread across the globe, full family gatherings were rare, although in 2008, according to biographer Michael Wolff, the Murdochs spent the festive season together on a flotilla of private yachts. But more often in recent years it was Rupert - the world's most influential media titan for decades - and his daughter Elisabeth who would make time for each other.
As Rupert turns 94, the Murdoch family faces unprecedented tensions marked by a recent court battle that excluded Elisabeth and her siblings from their family firm. These disputes have created a rift that, according to commentators, feel permanent.
James Murdoch's relationship with his father and brother Lachlan is particularly strained, with accusations of misogyny aimed at Rupert following their recent legal squabbles. Meanwhile, Lachlan has solidified his position as the key driver of the family's business future, aiming to steer the company towards digital and streaming successes.
Despite ongoing tensions, Lachlan's leadership has resulted in a doubling of Fox Corp's stock prices under the Trump presidency, pushing debates over political affiliations and family loyalty into the spotlight. As Elisabeth and other siblings deal with their exclusion and potential irreconcilability, the question remains: what legacy will Rupert leave behind?
