Rupert Murdoch, a prominent media figure, has announced his engagement to Ann Lesley Smith, a former police chaplain. They met at his Californian vineyard in September, and Murdoch, at 92, is preparing for his fifth marriage following his recent split from his fourth wife, Jerry Hall, in August. Murdoch, owner of several major media outlets including The Australian, The Times, and Fox News, proposed to the 66-year-old widow in New York on March 17. The couple plans to wed later this summer.
Murdoch has a notable history of marriages and family. His first marriage was to Patricia Booker in 1956, with whom he had his daughter Prudence. This marriage ended after 11 years. He then married Scottish journalist Anna Torv in 1967, with whom he had three children, Elisabeth, Lachlan, and James, before their 32-year divorce. His third marriage was to Wendi Deng in 1999, resulting in two daughters, Grace and Chloe, and ended in 2013. In 2016, Murdoch married Jerry Hall.
Regarding Murdoch’s business interests, this marriage is not expected to affect the ownership structure of his media companies. Murdoch controls News Corp and Fox Corp through a family trust, holding approximately 40% of voting shares in each company. Fox Corp, parent company of Fox News Channel, is currently involved in a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Dominion Voting Systems, alleging the network falsely claimed Dominion’s voting machines rigged the 2020 US presidential election. Fox News defends its coverage as newsworthy and protected under the first amendment.
Pros and Cons of This Lifestyle:
Pros:
- Companionship in Later Years: Murdoch’s engagement offers companionship and emotional support in his later years.
- Shared Interests and Values: Meeting at a vineyard event suggests shared interests, potentially leading to a harmonious relationship.
- Resilience in Personal Life: Murdoch’s readiness to marry again demonstrates resilience and optimism in his personal life.
Cons:
- Age and Health Concerns: At 92, Murdoch’s age may present health and longevity concerns in the marriage.
- Complex Family Dynamics: With multiple marriages and children from previous relationships, navigating family dynamics can be challenging.
- Public and Media Scrutiny: As a high-profile media owner, Murdoch’s personal life is subject to intense public and media scrutiny, which can add pressure to the relationship.
