On a beautiful day at his California estate and vineyard, Moraga, 93-year-old media tycoon Rupert Murdoch married 67-year-old Elena Zhukova. The ceremony, held amidst the lush greenery of the vineyard, was attended by close friends and family, marking a new chapter in Murdoch’s eventful life.
How Did Rupert Murdoch and Elena Zhukova Meet?
The engagement between Murdoch and Zhukova was confirmed in March, and their love story began at a family gathering in 2023. Zhukova, a retired molecular biologist, captured Murdoch’s heart with her intelligence and grace. At the wedding, Murdoch donned a dark suit with a patterned yellow tie, while Zhukova looked radiant in a white dress, carrying a bouquet of Lily of the Valley flowers.
What Were Murdoch’s Previous Marriages?
Murdoch’s journey through love has been marked by four previous marriages. His first was with flight attendant Patricia Booker in 1956, ending in 1967 with one child, Prudence. The same year, he married Scottish journalist Anna Maria Torv, with whom he had three children: Elisabeth, Lachlan, and James. This marriage lasted until 1999.
Shortly after, Murdoch married Wendi Deng. They had two daughters, Grace and Chloe, but divorced in 2013. His fourth marriage was to supermodel Jerry Hall from 2016 to 2022. A brief engagement with Ann Lesley Smith in 2023 ended after just two weeks.
Who is Elena Zhukova?
Elena Zhukova is a distinguished molecular biologist with a focus on diabetes research. She has an impressive career, having worked at various esteemed institutions, including the University of California, Los Angeles. Zhukova emigrated from Moscow to the United States towards the end of the Soviet Union with her then-husband, Alexander Zhukov, a billionaire energy investor. They have a daughter, Dasha Zhukova, who was married to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich until 2017.
How Did Wendi Deng Influence This Union?
Interestingly, it was Murdoch’s third wife, Wendi Deng, who introduced him to Elena Zhukova. This introduction led to a blossoming relationship, culminating in their recent wedding.
What Changes in Business After Murdoch’s Retirement?
In September 2023, Murdoch announced his retirement as the chief of Fox Corp and News Corp, passing the chairmanship to his son, Lachlan. Despite stepping back, Murdoch retains the title of chairman emeritus. In his farewell letter to employees, Murdoch emphasized his lifelong engagement with news and ideas, ensuring that his passion for media would continue, albeit in different roles.
How is the Family Trust Structured?
Murdoch’s new marriage is not anticipated to significantly affect his business affairs. The family trust, which controls Fox Corp and News Corp, includes Murdoch and his four eldest children: Prudence, Elisabeth, Lachlan, and James. This structure maintains stability in the ownership and management of his media empire.
What is Murdoch’s Legacy in Media?
Rupert Murdoch’s influence on the media industry is profound and spans several decades. His career began in the 1950s in Australia, and he quickly expanded his empire by acquiring significant publications such as the News of the World and the Sun in the UK in 1969. His foray into the US market saw the acquisition of the New York Post and the Wall Street Journal. In 1996, he launched Fox News, which has become the most-watched TV news channel in the US.
What Controversies Has Murdoch Faced?
Murdoch’s career has not been without controversies. The most notable was the UK phone-hacking scandal involving the News of the World, which brought significant scrutiny and challenges. Despite these issues, Murdoch’s impact on the media landscape remains indelible.
What Lies Ahead for Murdoch and Zhukova?
As Rupert Murdoch embarks on this new chapter with Elena Zhukova, the media world watches with keen interest. Their union brings together two influential figures from diverse backgrounds, creating a compelling narrative for both personal and professional spheres.
How Will Lachlan Murdoch Lead the Future?
With Rupert Murdoch stepping back, his son Lachlan now leads Fox Corp and News Corp. Under his guidance, the companies are expected to continue their influential roles in global media. Rupert Murdoch’s legacy, built on ambition and resilience, is in capable hands.
Conclusion: What Does the Future Hold for Murdoch’s Empire?
As Rupert Murdoch enjoys his later years with Elena Zhukova, his legacy continues to shape the media industry. His career, marked by significant achievements and occasional controversies, has left an indelible mark on global media. The future of his empire, now under Lachlan’s leadership, remains a testament to Murdoch’s vision and influence. This new chapter in Murdoch’s life is a blend of personal happiness and enduring professional legacy, promising continued fascination and discussion in the media world.
4o