The Rest Is Politics The Phone-Hacking Scandal: How Murdoch's UK Empire Fell (Part 3)
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Oct 25, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Michael Wolff, a two-time biographer of Rupert Murdoch, delves into the explosive phone-hacking scandal that rocked Britain. He reveals how the hacking of victims, including children, ignited public outrage and spurred political action. Michael and Alastair explore Murdoch's tumultuous parliamentary hearings and the impact of his marriage to Wendi Deng. They also discuss the Leveson inquiry's aftermath and the missed opportunities for press reform, highlighting the enduring power of tabloids in shaping media culture.
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Hacking Victims Triggered Public Outrage
- The Millie Dowler revelation shifted public outrage because it showed tabloids targeted victims with no news value.
Wendi Deng's Moment In The Committee
- Alastair recalls Rupert Murdoch's appearance at the select committee and Wendi Deng's dramatic intervention.
Missed Political Opportunity For Reform
- The scandal exposed systemic failures: editorial culture, police relations and weak political action combined to blunt reform.