The family of Rupert Murdoch have reached a deal that will see his politically conservative eldest son Lachlan Murdoch cement control of the family media empire – a deal significant for the future of journalism as well as Murdoch’s media outlets: Fox News, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Post, The Times and The Sun in the UK, and a number of other television and press holdings in Australia and other countries.
The agreement announced on 8 September 2025 ends a years-long family succession brawl over control of one of the world’s highest-profile media groups and possibly ensures its ongoing conservative stance after 94-year-old Rupert’s death.
Lachlan will control a new trust with younger siblings Grace and Chloe Murdoch, Rupert’s children from his marriage to Wendi Deng, while siblings Prudence MacLeod, Elisabeth Murdoch and James Murdoch will cease being beneficiaries of any trust with shares in Fox or News Corp in return for about $1.1 billion each in proceeds from their current shares.
Before the deal, the New York Times detailed a secret legal battle – perhaps more dramatic than the HBO tv series Succession – based on documents obtained of a trial record, most of the briefs, all the rulings and the full transcript of the trial itself, including private messages between family members that were entered as evidence.
The case was originally filed under seal in Nevada, a state known for its favourable estate-planning laws, to ensure that it would remain out of public view.
Murdoch family reach deal – Reuters 8 September
Inside the Murdoch deal – New York Times 8 September
Inside the Murdochs’ succession drama
Inside the Murdochs’ succession drama – PDF
Six takeaways on the Murdoch succession fight
Rupert Murdoch loses bid to change succession trust
Murdoch son Lachlan replaces Rupert as Fox and News Corp chairman – BBC September 2024
Six things about Lachlan Murdoch – BBC December 2024
Murdoch to Musk – shifting global media power
Rupert Murdoch – Wikipedia
