Background Briefing 01 | Murdoch's Endgame
Oct 11, 2024
Paddy Manning, Lachlan Murdoch's biographer and journalist, joins Lachlan Murdoch himself, the heir to the Murdoch media empire. They delve into the intense family dynamics at play, revealing Lachlan's not-so-clear path to succession. They discuss a riveting family dinner from 1994, the rivalry between Lachlan and his brother James, and the impact of their upbringing on their careers. With dramatic tales of corporate failures like OneTel and high-stakes social encounters aboard the Arctic P, the tension around Lachlan's legacy unfolds fascinatingly.
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1994 Family Dinner
- Lachlan Murdoch invited his philosophy lecturer, Beatrice Longines, to a family dinner in 1994.
- During the dinner, the topic of succession arose, with Rupert expressing pride in Lachlan, but James jokingly boasting about his own accomplishments.
Packer and Murdoch
- Upon arriving in Australia, Lachlan Murdoch was welcomed by James Packer, another media heir.
- Their friendship faced a challenge as the Murdoch and Packer empires clashed during the Super League rugby league competition.
Arctic P Cruise
- Amidst the Super League rivalry, James Packer invited Lachlan Murdoch and friends on a cruise aboard the Arctic P.
- This trip led to a lasting friendship and a peace deal resulting in the formation of the National Rugby League.