Who is Rupert Murdoch?
Rupert Murdoch, born in Melbourne in 1931, is the owner of News Corporation, the world’s second-largest media conglomerate. His father, Keith Murdoch, was a war correspondent who later owned two regional newspapers and a small radio station in Adelaide, South Australia. Murdoch inherited Australia’s News Limited from his father in 1952, which owned the Adelaide News and the Sunday Mail.
News Limited Expansion
Murdoch expanded News Limited throughout Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, acquiring various newspapers and launching The Australian, Australia’s first national daily newspaper. In the UK, he purchased News of the World, The Sun, The Times, and The Sunday Times, all under the holding company News International.
News Corporation
The News Corporation Limited was incorporated in Australia in 1979 as the holding company for these global investments. It was reincorporated in the US in 2004, where it is listed on the NASDAQ and the Australian Securities Exchange. Murdoch’s acquisitions in the US include Twentieth Century Fox, HarperCollins, and The Wall Street Journal.
21st Century Fox
In 2013, News Corporation was split into two publicly-traded companies: the present News Corp. was renamed 21st Century Fox, focusing on media, and a new News Corp was formed, focusing on publishing. Murdoch’s son, James Murdoch, is the CEO of 21st Century Fox, with an estimated net worth of $2 billion.
Rupert Murdoch Net Worth and Yachts
Forbes estimates Murdoch net worth at $20 billion. He has owned two luxury yachts: the Perini Navi sailing yacht Rosehearty and the Philippe Briand-designed sailing yacht Vertigo. Murdoch sold Rosehearty in 2014 to US real estate developer Joey Kaempfer.
Murdoch’s Family and Personal Life
Rupert is married to Jerry Hall and has six children: Lachlan Murdoch, James Murdoch, Prudence Murdoch, Elisabeth Murdoch, Grace Murdoch, and Chloe Murdoch. His children have played significant roles in the management and operation of the family’s media empire. His ex-wife is Anna Murdoch Mann.
Media Influence and Controversies
Throughout his career, Murdoch has faced controversies, including phone hacking scandals and accusations of political influence through his media outlets. Despite these issues, he has remained a powerful figure in the global media landscape.
Philanthropy and Social Causes
Murdoch has supported various charitable organizations and social causes, including education, health, and environmental initiatives. He has made significant contributions to institutions such as the National Gallery in London and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
Legacy and Impact
Mr. Murdoch’s impact on the media industry has been undeniable. His business acumen and relentless drive have shaped the way news and entertainment are consumed worldwide. As a result, his influence extends far beyond the media empire he has built, affecting public opinion, politics, and culture on a global scale.