In 2010, a family counseling retreat held in the serene landscapes of Australia resulted in a document known as the "family constitution," which has recently been thrust into the public eye after being leaked to Vanity Fair. This constitution, intended to guide the Murdoch family dynamics, included the edict to "relentlessly communicate openly, with trust and humility." However, the reality behind this idealistic phrase paints a more complex picture of the Murdoch family, particularly as revealed by James Murdoch in a candid interview with The Atlantic. Describing the retreat as a "life-defining moment," James offered insights into the intricate and often tumultuous relationships within one of the world's most powerful media families.
The Murdoch family's affairs have long been a topic of public interest, fueled by their prominence and wealth. Without the influence of the hit TV show "Succession," which creator Jesse Armstrong claims drew details from press cuttings, the public might not have been as captivated by their story. James Murdoch's revelations suggest that he felt manipulated by his father, Rupert Murdoch, who seemingly orchestrated a rivalry among his children. During an important family meeting, Rupert was reportedly texting questions to a lawyer, leaving James to question his father's focus and priorities.
Rupert Murdoch's media empire, notably through Fox News, has taken a significant rightward shift, faster than Rupert's conscience or intellect could accommodate. This ideological transformation played a critical role in the legal battle for control over the Murdoch family trust. The contentious case saw Rupert and his son Lachlan seeking to secure Lachlan's position within the family business. Ultimately, they lost the case brought against them by siblings James, Liz, and Prue.
The Murdochs have also been embroiled in several high-profile controversies, including the infamous hacking scandal and a series of defamation suits. One such suit led to a substantial payout of three-quarters of a billion dollars in the Dominion case. Despite these challenges, Lachlan Murdoch emerged as Rupert's chosen successor, reportedly due to his political alignment with his father. This decision has not been without its critics, especially from James, Liz, and Prue, who have expressed concern over Lachlan's increasingly hardline conservative views, particularly regarding the climate crisis.
"relentlessly communicate openly, with trust and humility" – James Murdoch's family constitution
James Murdoch's experience during the family retreat left an indelible mark on him. He described it as a moment that shaped his understanding of family dynamics and power struggles. The retreat aimed to protect the family from "that which could infiltrate from without," yet it seems internal conflicts proved more challenging to manage.
“that which could infiltrate from without” – James Murdoch's family constitution
The family's internal discord and legal battles have become emblematic of broader issues within elite circles. Michael Wolff, in his writings on the Murdochs, noted a significant observation about power and personal motivations.
“I’m not particularly interested in politics. I think that the real issues are about people’s personal motivations.” – Michael Wolff
This sentiment is echoed in public perceptions of billionaires and their often tumultuous personal lives.
“I live to resist the kneejerk characterisation of billionaires as exceptional just because they insist they are, but I have to admit: these billionaires are exceptionally horrible.” – Unattributed