Rupert Murdoch Celebrates 95th Birthday Amid Controversy

Rupert Murdoch, the founder of News Corporation and Fox Corporation, celebrated his 95th birthday on March 11, 2026, at The Grill in New York City. The event attracted a diverse array of high-profile guests, including political figures, media executives, and celebrities. Notable attendees included former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Rishi Sunak, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, and actor Hugh Jackman, who performed classic songs such as "New York, New York" and "Fly Me to the Moon."

Daily Beast

While the celebration was grand, it was marked by the absence of three of Murdoch's children—James, Elisabeth, and Prudence. Their absence follows a contentious family dispute over control of the Murdoch media empire, which culminated in a settlement that excluded them from significant trust benefits. Instead, they were compensated with $1.1 billion each for their shares in News Corp and Fox Corporation. This settlement was part of a broader effort by Rupert and his son Lachlan to consolidate control over the family business.

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President Donald Trump, who is currently suing Murdoch for $10 billion over allegations related to The Wall Street Journal's reporting, sent a video tribute praising Murdoch as "legendary" and "one of a kind." Despite their legal battles, Trump acknowledged Murdoch's "courage, vision, and determination," stating that he has "changed the world" throughout his career. The juxtaposition of Trump's praise and ongoing litigation highlights the complex relationship between the two figures.

Daily Beast

During the event, Lachlan Murdoch, Rupert's son and CEO of Fox Corporation, expressed pride in his father's legacy, emphasizing his identity as a journalist. Robert Thomson, CEO of News Corp, described Rupert as humble and egalitarian, contrasting the public perception of him with his true character. Guests also included Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, further intertwining the event with political connections.

The Wrap

The celebration was not without its critics. The absence of James, Elisabeth, and Prudence Murdoch raised questions about family unity and the implications of the recent settlement. Additionally, the ongoing legal dispute between Trump and Murdoch casts a shadow over the festivities, as Trump's lawsuit stems from contentious media coverage that has strained their relationship.

The Wrap

While most sources reported on the celebratory nature of the event, discrepancies exist regarding the motivations behind the absence of James, Elisabeth, and Prudence. Some reports suggest ongoing familial tensions, while others imply a strategic distancing from the media mogul's public persona.

The Wrap

• “You are entitled to be called many things . . . but I know you are most proud of being a journalist at heart.” — Lachlan Murdoch, CEO of Fox Corporation

New York Post

• “is made of an insatiable love and appreciation of life, and a mixture of wisdom and boyishness.” — Elena Zhukova, Rupert Murdoch's wife

New York Post

• “ Robert Thomson, NewsCorp chief executive, said: “There is a chasm, a vast chasm between the Myth of Murdoch and the Reality of Rupert.” — Robert Thomson, CEO of News Corp

New York Post

The 95th birthday celebration of Rupert Murdoch serves as a reflection of his complex legacy, marked by both admiration and controversy, as he continues to influence the media landscape.

The Wrap