

The Secret Succession Fight That Will Determine the Future of Fox News
28 snips Aug 2, 2024
Jim Rutenberg, a writer at large for The New York Times, dives deep into the power struggles within the Murdoch family. He reveals how Rupert Murdoch’s secret changes to his succession plan triggered fierce rivalries among his children. The podcast discusses shifts in editorial control at Fox News, emphasizing a push for responsible journalism alongside conservative values. Tensions between brothers James and Lachlan are examined, alongside the legal troubles facing their media empire that cast a shadow on the future of journalism.
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Succession Struggle
- James Murdoch, initially favored, lost standing after a hacking scandal.
- Lachlan Murdoch, Rupert's preferred successor, gained control, but it's temporary.
Trust Structure
- Rupert Murdoch's family trust dictates control of his media empire after his death.
- The trust grants equal voting power to all four children, making Lachlan's control uncertain.
Buyout Attempt
- James, Elizabeth, and Prudence offered to sell their shares to Lachlan.
- The deal failed due to financial constraints, leaving the siblings in a power bloc.