Rupert Murdoch: The Scandalous Media Mogul's Controversial Legacy

The Phone Hacking Scandal that Rocked the Media World

Rupert Murdoch's vast media empire was rocked by the phone hacking scandal that erupted in 2011. The scandal revealed that employees of Murdoch's now-defunct British tabloid, News of the World, had engaged in widespread phone hacking, illegally accessing voicemails of celebrities, Jewish leaders, and even a murdered schoolgirl. The revelations sparked outrage and led to the closure of the 168-year-old newspaper, as well as a public inquiry into press ethics and practices.

A Jewish Wife and a Fifth Marriage

Despite the scandal, Murdoch's personal life continued to make news. In 2023, at the age of 93, the media mogul married for the fifth time, tying the knot with retired Russian molecular biologist Elena Zhukova, who is Jewish. The lavish ceremony took place at Murdoch's Californian vineyard, drawing both criticism and curiosity from the public.

A Polarizing Figure in the Media Landscape

Throughout his career, Murdoch has been a polarizing figure, attacked by some for his conservative political leanings and accused of using his media outlets to push his own agenda. However, his supporters praise his business acumen and innovative approach to media, which transformed the industry and shaped public discourse on a global scale.

Stepping Down from His Media Empire

In a move that signaled the end of an era, Murdoch announced his retirement in 2023, stepping down as chairman of Fox and News Corporation. His son, Lachlan, took over as the sole executive in charge of the powerful media conglomerate, marking a new chapter in the Murdoch family's legacy.