Rupert Murdoch's plan to have his eldest son, Lachlan Murdoch, take control of Fox News and News Corp. has hit a significant roadblock due to recent legal battles and internal family disputes. This development might steer his media empire towards a new direction under the influence of his more liberal-leaning children.
Newsmax reports a Nevada court last year ruled against the 93-year-old media mogul's attempt to alter his family trust, which would have favored Lachlan, 52, who shares his father's conservative views. The ruling ensures that all four of Murdoch's adult children — Lachlan, James, Elisabeth, and Prudence — will have equal voting power over the empire post-Rupert.
Impact on Fox News: This decision could lead to a significant ideological shift at Fox News, traditionally a bastion of conservative media, as James Murdoch, who has openly criticized the network, might push for a more moderate or liberal editorial line.
Family Divisions: The internal strife is reportedly led by James Murdoch, who has been vocal about his disdain for Fox News' direction. In interviews, James has described his father as a "misogynist" and Fox News as a "menace" to democracy.
James' Views: James has expressed concerns about the integrity of Fox News' reporting, particularly regarding misinformation. He advocates for changes in corporate and editorial governance, not necessarily a shift in political orientation, though his actions suggest otherwise.
James and his wife Kathryn have been politically active, donating millions to oppose Donald Trump's 2020 reelection and endorsing Kamala Harris. They've also criticized Fox News and other Murdoch media for climate change denialism during the Australian bushfires.
Corporate Influence: The Murdoch media empire encompasses not just Fox News but also The Wall Street Journal, the New York Post, HarperCollins, and various media in Australia and Britain.
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