The Intelligence from The Economist When the son comes up: the Murdoch succession battle
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Sep 12, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Tom Wainwright, media editor at The Economist, delves into Lachlan Murdoch's ascent as he takes the reins from Rupert. The talk highlights the complexities of family dynamics in the Murdoch empire and contrasts Lachlan's digital vision with his father's traditional strategies. Additionally, Wainwright sheds light on the surge of the synthetic opioid Kush in West Africa, exploring its alarming public health implications. The dive into Giorgio Armani's influential legacy adds a stylish touch to the conversation.
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Lachlan's Succession Signals Continuity
- Lachlan Murdoch now controls Fox and News Corp and will likely shape media for decades.
- Tom Wainwright expects continuity in politics and more dealmaking under Lachlan's leadership.
A Lifelong Grooming For Leadership
- Lachlan worked at printing presses as a teenager and joined family papers after university.
- He briefly quit Fox, returned to Australia, then came back to New York and reclaimed favourite status.
Settlement Locks In Control Until 2050
- Rebel siblings reportedly accepted large payouts and relinquished voting rights in the family trust.
- That payment secures Lachlan's control until at least 2050 and reduces internal threats to his rule.