Murdoch empire succession debate ends with $4.4 billion settlement

The Murdoch family, prominent media tycoons of UK, US and Australia, has reached a $4.4 billion accord, resolving years of internal conflict over the future of Rupert Murdoch's media empire.

Executive chairman of News Corp, Lachlan Murdoch as of Monday, September 08, 2025 agreement, will maintain control of Fox News, The Wall Street Journal, and New York Post while his three siblings surrender their stakes in the conservative-leaning properties.

Prudence MacLeod, Elisabeth Murdoch, and James Murdoch will each receive approximately $1.1 billion through the sale of their shares in News Corp and Fox Corp.

The deal removes influence factor over editorial direction, ensuring the media outlets' conservative slant continues following 94-year-old Rupert Murdoch's eventual passing.

The resolution concludes all litigation and mirrors themes from the HBO series Succession inspired by the family's dynamics.

Lachlan, described as a chip off the old block by former Sunday Times editor Andrew Neil, now commands unchallenged authority over the empire.

International business magnate more moderate siblings, particularly James, who had distanced himself over climate change and election coverage disagreements, will exit the media operations entirely.

The settlement follows a Nevada court's December 2024, rejection of Rupert's attempt to unilaterally modify trust terms.

The 54-year-old executive continues as heir to media conglomerate and News Corp chair, guiding strategy since his father stepped back from daily operations in 2023 while maintaining emeritus status.