The ongoing conflict within the Murdoch family feels like something from a TV drama. Rupert Murdoch’s plan, called “Project Harmony,” aims to divide control of his media empire among his children.
However, this plan has been anything but peaceful. In 2019, $2 billion was given to each of Rupert’s six children. Yet, disagreements over the family trust have led to intense disputes and legal battles, particularly with his son Lachlan.
Divide and Conquer
The Murdoch family’s internal feud resembles a story ripped straight from the TV series Succession. Rupert Murdoch’s plan, dubbed Project Harmony, aims to split control of his media empire among his children, yet it has been anything but harmonious.
In 2019, Rupert distributed $2 billion to each of his six children. Still, disagreements over the family trust have led to intense disputes. Last year, Rupert informed his daughters, Elisabeth and Prudence, about his intent to modify the trust, favouring his son Lachlan.
The Root of the Conflict
The core issue stems from political differences. Lachlan, much like his father, holds staunch right-wing views. His siblings from Rupert’s first two marriages align more liberally. This ideological split has raised concerns about maintaining the identity of right-leaning outlets like Fox News and The Wall Street Journal.
Rupert fears that allowing his liberal-leaning children significant control might jeopardise the commercial value of his media assets. Thus, he plans to argue in court that placing Lachlan in charge is in the family’s best interest.
Rupert’s legal team, led by Adam Streisand, insists that ‘Project Harmony’ is intended to create peace and order within the family. Nevertheless, it seems more likely to provoke ongoing legal battles and animosities.
A Complex Legal Tangle
James Murdoch, branded as the “troublesome beneficiary”, stands out for his resistance. Despite receiving $2 billion, his relationship with his father remains strained. Meanwhile, Rupert’s fifth wedding to Elena Zhukova saw a conspicuous absence of James, Elisabeth, and Prudence.
The battle in court, scheduled for September, may simply unleash further lawsuits and counterclaims. Rupert could be inviting more turmoil within the family.
What Rupert has done is expose underlying tensions that might have erupted eventually. His drive to maintain a conservative stance in his media properties, even after significant political shifts, underscores his dedication to his ideological beliefs.
Lachlan: The Chosen Successor
Rupert is convinced that Lachlan possesses the qualities needed to manage the empire. Lachlan’s closeness to Rupert has seemingly reinforced this belief, contrasting with the paths taken by his siblings.
Elisabeth has carved her place in the television production world. James is engaged in environmental projects and often criticises Rupert’s media stance, particularly Fox’s climate change denial. Prudence remains relatively untested in business.
Rupert’s consideration that Lachlan alone should helm the company may be based on practicality, given the evident discord among his other children.
A Long History of Discontent
Rupert’s career has been characterised by a single-minded approach. He never thrived in partnerships. His belief in Lachlan’s capabilities might stem from a contrast with his other children’s interests and pursuits.
Rupert’s declaration to keep his media titles right-leaning aligns with his conviction of where their brand identity lies. Even amid political changes, he remains committed to this direction.
However, this move raises questions about whether Rupert’s chosen path will indeed resolve the family’s simmering tensions or merely deepen the existing rifts.
A Public Display of Family Strife
Murdoch’s decision to initiate a trial may be intended to preempt and manage these conflicts, yet it risks exacerbating them.
The spectacle of a court case highlights the longstanding issues within the family, pulling back the curtain on power struggles and divergent ambitions.
Rupert’s move to elevate Lachlan could be an effort to establish a clear line of succession, though its effectiveness remains uncertain.
Uncertain Future
As the court date approaches, the future of the Murdoch media empire hangs in the balance.
The resolution of this legal battle will likely shape the future dynamics of the family and the direction of the media outlets they control.
The Murdoch family dispute over control of their media empire remains unresolved. With Rupert’s attempts to install Lachlan as his successor, divisions seem to deepen. The future of the family’s media assets hinges on upcoming legal battles. Keeping Fox News and other outlets right-leaning is central to Rupert’s vision, but it’s uncertain if this will be sustainable in the long run.