How Rupert Murdoch built an empire and broke his family - Fresh Air Recap

Podcast: Fresh Air

Published: 2026-02-03

Duration: 44 minutes

Guests: Gabriel Sherman, Sam Fragoso

Summary

The episode explores Rupert Murdoch's media empire and the familial strife that accompanied its growth. Journalist Gabriel Sherman discusses how Murdoch's decision to appoint his son Lachlan as successor impacted the family dynamics and political landscapes globally.

What Happened

Rupert Murdoch's decision to name his son Lachlan as the successor to his media empire in 2023 followed a significant family buyout, where his three oldest children received $1.1 billion each. This move resulted in estrangement within the family, highlighting the intense internal competition for Rupert's approval and control over the empire. Gabriel Sherman, author of 'Bonfire of the Murdochs,' provides insights into how Murdoch's businesses, including Fox News and The Wall Street Journal, have influenced politics across three continents over the past five decades.

Sherman delves into Murdoch's early career, inheriting the News of Adelaide from his father and his eventual move to the United States in 1973. Despite initial struggles, Murdoch made his mark with sensationalist tactics, acquiring major media outlets like the New York Post and applying British tabloid journalism strategies. Murdoch's shift towards conservative politics aligned with his media ventures' direction, especially Fox News, which became a juggernaut in conservative media.

The dynamics within the Murdoch family were shaped by Rupert's expectations for his children to be apprenticed in the business from a young age. James Murdoch, known as the family rebel, often clashed with his father's conservative vision, especially after being sidelined in favor of Lachlan. This internal conflict is a microcosm of the broader political impact Murdoch's media empire has had globally.

Gabriel Sherman characterizes Rupert Murdoch as a figure of immense influence, particularly in shaping political discourse in the Western world. He describes Murdoch's complex relationship with Donald Trump, noting that while Murdoch has influenced Trump, he does not respect him as a businessman. This relationship illustrates Murdoch's overarching strategy of using his media empire to steer political narratives.

The episode also touches on the evolution of the media landscape, with a shift towards digital platforms and personal brands, which challenges traditional media networks like Murdoch's. Despite these changes, Fox News remains highly profitable, generating over a billion dollars in profit, underscoring the enduring power of Murdoch's empire.

Finally, TV critic David Bianculli reviews the return of 'The Muppets,' a cultural phenomenon that first appeared on a local TV show in the 1950s. The revival features modern stars like Maya Rudolph and Seth Rogan, continuing the legacy of the beloved franchise on ABC and Disney Plus.

Key Insights