Rupert Murdoch in 'real-life Succession' legal battle with children over media empire

Rupert Murdoch, the 93-year-old media magnate, is involved in a legal battle with three of his children over the future control of his media empire, which includes Fox News, the Wall Street Journal, and British assets such as The Sun and The Times newspapers. Murdoch is seeking to secure greater voting power for his eldest son, Lachlan Murdoch, in the family trust to ensure he retains control over the businesses. This move is contested by his other children, James, Elisabeth, and Prudence Murdoch, who oppose the shift in control and the conservative editorial direction of the media outlets.

The Murdoch Family Trust currently holds eight votes, split evenly between Murdoch senior and his four eldest children. Murdoch's intention to alter this arrangement has led to a legal dispute, with a trial expected to take place in September. The court will decide if Murdoch can legally amend the trust, requiring him to prove that his actions are in good faith and for the long-term benefit of all beneficiaries. The outcome of this battle will determine the future leadership and strategic direction of the media empire after Murdoch's death.