Hey Succession fans! Have you seen the latest Murdoch news? After losing a court fight to change his trust, Rupert still got his way—Lachlan will take sole control of the media empire when he’s gone.
What happened?
Here’s a quick sequence of events:
- After his 1999 divorce, Rupert locked his empire in an irrevocable trust where his four oldest kids, Lachlan, James, Elisabeth, and Prudence each got equal votes, Chloe and Grace got cash but no voice.
- Problem was, Rupert only trusted Lachlan, his loyal conservative heir, to keep Fox on brand. His other kids were too moderate for his taste.
- In 2023, Rupert and Lachlan tried to change the trust and sneak through “Project Family Harmony.”
- But in Dec 2024, a Nevada judge torched it as a “carefully crafted charade.” No changes could be made.
- This week? Deal done! Lachlan pays $1.1B each to his three siblings who will sever all ties with the company. Lachlan keeps control, while Chloe and Grace still get money and no power.
Was it a good deal?
It’s about a 21% discount on the current stock value. But since everyone agreed, so it looks like a win all around. (1)
I give kudos to the Murdoch family for settling this brawl before the 94-year old patriarch dies. Most families wait until the funeral to start swinging over the silverware.
When it comes to estate planning, every family has its own fault lines—money, control, and old rivalries. The best plan isn’t just about dividing assets, but about anticipating how your heirs will behave when you’re gone.
If family dynamics keep you up at night, maybe it’s time to revisit your estate plan with an attorney. Tell them all the dirty laundry – because they can help you navigate the family dynamics and build something sturdy.
Plan well!
Barbara
Barbara
P.S. What does one do with $1.1B?!? I will leave you lots of time to ponder this one. I am away on vacation and there will be no memo next week.
Sept.14, 2025
- https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/top/572611/murdochs-resolve-succession-saga-but-family-s-hold-on-empire-is-vulnerable
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