Few names in media are as synonymous with influence and controversy as Rupert Murdoch. At 93 years old (as of 2025), the Australian-born American media tycoon has left an indelible mark on the global news industry. With a career spanning over seven decades, Murdoch has built an empire that has shaped public opinion, politics, and entertainment across multiple continents. Let’s dive into the life, career, and legacy of one of the most powerful figures in media history.
From Australia to the World: Early Life and Education
Born on March 11, 1931, in Melbourne, Australia, Keith Rupert Murdoch was the second of four children born to Sir Keith Murdoch and Dame Elisabeth Murdoch. He grew up immersed in the world of journalism, as his father was a well-respected newspaper publisher. Murdoch attended Geelong Grammar School, where he excelled academically, before heading to Oxford University in England. While at Oxford, he was known as “Red Rupert” for his left-leaning political views—a stark contrast to the conservative empire he would later build.
The Rise of a Media Powerhouse
Murdoch’s journey into media ownership began after his father’s passing in 1952 when he inherited News Limited, a small newspaper company in Australia. Over the next two decades, he expanded aggressively, acquiring multiple newspapers in Australia and New Zealand. In 1964, he launched The Australian, the country’s first national daily newspaper, solidifying his reputation as a rising force in media.
By 1968, he set his sights on the UK, purchasing the News of the World, followed by The Sun in 1969. His biggest British acquisition came in 1981 when he bought The Times and The Sunday Times. With these moves, Murdoch established himself as a dominant figure in British media.
Breaking into America: Murdoch’s U.S. Expansion
In 1974, Murdoch relocated to New York City, setting the stage for his expansion into the United States. His ambition led to the purchase of the New York Post, and in 1985, he acquired US citizenship to meet legal requirements for television network ownership. His biggest moves in the American media landscape included:
- Launching Fox Broadcasting Company (1986)
- Establishing Fox News Channel (1996)
- Acquiring The Wall Street Journal (2007)
Under his leadership, Fox News became a political and cultural powerhouse, influencing conservative discourse in the United States. His acquisitions shaped news consumption habits worldwide, with Fox Corporation becoming one of the most profitable media companies in history.
Murdoch’s Personal Life: Marriages and Family
Murdoch’s personal life has been as eventful as his career. He has been married four times and has six children, many of whom have played roles in his media empire:
- Patricia Booker (1956-1967) – Together, they had one daughter, Prudence Murdoch.
- Anna Maria Torv (1967-1999) – This marriage produced three children: Elisabeth, Lachlan, and James Murdoch.
- Wendi Deng (1999-2013) – They had two daughters, Grace and Chloe Murdoch.
- Jerry Hall (2016-2022) – Their marriage ended in divorce, adding another chapter to Murdoch’s high-profile personal life.
His children, particularly Lachlan and James Murdoch, have been heavily involved in the business, with Lachlan now positioned as his father’s likely media successor.
Rupert Murdoch’s Net Worth in 2025
With a vast media empire spanning newspapers, television, and book publishing, Murdoch’s wealth has continued to grow. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at $20 billion. His fortune comes from his ownership of News Corp, Fox Corporation, The Wall Street Journal, The Times, The Sun, HarperCollins, and Sky News Australia, among many other outlets.
The Impact and Controversies of Rupert Murdoch
Murdoch has wielded immense influence over public opinion and politics, but not without controversy. His media empire has been accused of biased reporting, political influence, and journalistic malpractice. Major scandals include:
- The News of the World phone hacking scandal (2011), where journalists were found guilty of hacking into the phones of celebrities and politicians.
- Allegations of manipulating news coverage to support conservative politicians, including former U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Despite these controversies, Murdoch has remained one of the most powerful figures in global media, shaping elections and political narratives worldwide.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Murdoch has received multiple honors for his contributions to the media industry:
- Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) (1984) for services to publishing.
- Inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2013).
Regardless of public perception, Murdoch’s impact on the media industry is undeniable.
Life Beyond the Boardroom: Personal Interests and Legacy
Despite his corporate dominance, Murdoch has shown a softer side through philanthropy and cultural interests. He owns multiple luxury properties, including homes in New York, Los Angeles, Montana, and London. He has also been portrayed in TV shows, books, and films, with notable depictions including:
- Barry Humphries in Selling Hitler
- Hugh Laurie in A Bit of Fry & Laurie
- Simon McBurney in The Loudest Voice
With his advancing age, many speculate what the future holds for his empire. His son, Lachlan Murdoch, is positioned to take the reins, but James Murdoch’s departure from the business in 2020 suggests internal tensions over the company’s direction.
The Murdoch Legacy: A Media Titan’s Final Chapter?
At 93, Rupert Murdoch remains a towering figure in global media. Whether celebrated as a business genius or criticized for his political influence, his legacy is secure. His empire has shaped modern journalism, entertainment, and politics in ways few individuals ever have.
As the media landscape continues to evolve in the digital age, the next chapter of Murdoch’s empire will likely be written by his successors. But one thing is certain—Rupert Murdoch’s influence will be felt for generations to come.
