The succession saga within Rupert Murdoch’s media empire is finally coming to an end. After years of family rivalries and conflicts, Lachlan Murdoch, the eldest son, is officially appointed to take the reins of News Corp and Fox Corporation.
At just 52 years old, Lachlan is entrusted with the presidency of this colossal media empire, comprising hundreds of companies and prestigious news titles such as the Wall Street Journal and the Times of London. A considerable responsibility for this heir of the Murdoch family, who will have to face the current challenges of the media industry and continue the conservative editorial line which has made the group famous.
Lachlan Murdoch is not his first experience in the family business. After climbing the ranks and managing several subsidiaries in Australia, he however chose to take a step back by suddenly resigning in 2005. The reasons for this departure were numerous, ranging from differences with his father over the management of the group to the desire to move on. more time with his family.
But Lachlan returned to prominence in 2014, serving as non-executive co-chairman of News Corp, then holding key positions at 21st Century Fox and Fox Corporation. His return was marked by tensions with his younger brother, James, who also had succession ambitions. Ultimately, it was Lachlan who was able to take the advantage and gain his father’s trust.
Although Rupert Murdoch’s succession at the head of his empire is now assured, we cannot help but wonder about the consequences of this transition for the media and political landscape. Rupert Murdoch’s media has often been criticized for its bias and its role in the rise of populism, whether through Brexit or the election of Donald Trump. With Lachlan at the helm, what will the group’s editorial line be and what impact will it have on public opinion?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Murdoch succession saga is marked by family feuds, unexpected decisions and colossal stakes. Lachlan Murdoch will have the difficult task of carrying on his father’s legacy while facing the challenges of an ever-changing media world. A story to follow closely.