The future of one of the world's most powerful media dynasties hangs in the balance, not in a boardroom, but within the complex web of familial ties binding Rupert Murdoch's four adult children. With a fortune estimated at a staggering £15 billion, the question of who will ultimately steer the ship—comprising Fox News, The Sun, and The Wall Street Journal—remains shrouded in intrigue, mirroring the fictional drama of HBO's Succession.
Unlike the television saga, the Murdoch succession story features four key players, each with a distinct relationship to their father's empire. The narrative is often dominated by the public rivalry between sons Lachlan and James, but the dynamics extend far beyond them.
The Firstborn: Prudence MacLeod
From his first marriage to Patricia Booker, Rupert Murdoch has one daughter, Prudence MacLeod. Often described as the most private and detached of the siblings, Prudence has largely remained outside the corporate fray. She has enjoyed a long and reportedly warm relationship with her father, but has chosen a life away from the relentless spotlight of the media business.
The Anointed Heir & The Rebel
The central conflict has frequently pit Lachlan against James. Lachlan, the eldest son from Murdoch's second marriage to Anna Torv, was long groomed as the successor. After a period away from the core business, he returned and was officially named heir, now serving as chairman and CEO of Fox Corporation.
His younger brother, James, took a different path. Formerly a key executive within the empire, he grew increasingly at odds with the editorial direction of outlets like Fox News. His progressive stance on issues like climate change put him at odds with the network's messaging. This ideological rift culminated in his departure from the News Corp board in 2020, signalling a profound and very public break from the family business.
The Wildcard: Elisabeth Murdoch
Often hailed as the most shrewd and business-savvy of the siblings, Elisabeth from the second marriage has carved her own successful path in the media world. She founded Shine Group, a prolific television production company later sold to News Corp. While she has held senior roles within the empire, she has also maintained a degree of independence. Her relationship with her father is considered strong, and many industry watchers believe she possesses the acumen to lead, though she remains outside the current corporate structure.
The recent merger of Rupert's News Corp and Fox Corporation into a single entity has thrown the succession plan into sharp relief. While Lachlan appears to be the favoured son, the influence of his sister Elisabeth and the stark opposition of brother James create a volatile and unpredictable landscape. The final chapter of who will truly control the Murdoch legacy is yet to be written, ensuring the real-life drama will continue to captivate the world.
