The Successor

Rupert's stepped down. What now? The first major biography of Lachlan Murdoch, unauthorised and complete.


After years of speculation about his succession plans, in 2023 Rupert Murdoch announced his retirement and the appointment of his eldest son, Lachlan, as sole chair of News Corp. The decision confirmed Lachlan's position as one of the world's most powerful people. Yet despite a lifetime in the spotlight, his personality, politics and business acumen remain enigmatic. What can we expect from his leadership of News Corp and Fox, and what will his ascension mean for politics and media around the world?

In this riveting biography, acclaimed journalist Paddy Manning explores Lachlan Murdoch's upbringing, political beliefs and his track record as head of Fox Corporation -- the man ultimately responsible for Fox News. Manning follows Lachlan's trajectory from a privileged Manhattan childhood, through his college years at Princeton, his shock decision to walk away from the family business, and his ultimate return as the prodigal son. The portrait that emerges is one of intriguing contradictions. Is Lachlan a risk-loving adventurer or a dutiful son? Ultra-conservative or thoughtful libertarian? Scarred by a series of spectacular business failures, or an underrated leader who has shrewdly repositioned his family's assets?

This is a book about the good, the bad and the ugly of the global media, and about America in the age of Trump and Biden. It is a book about power, apprenticeship, politics and succession.

'It's a brave man to take on an autobiography of one of the richest and most powerful men in global media.' --Crikey

'It is hard to think of a better time to write an account of the life and times of Lachlan Murdoch, heir-apparent to the News Corp throne -- or of a better writer to do it. Who Lachlan Murdoch is, how he thinks and what he does with his power is vital to Australian democracy. Paddy Manning has it all covered.' --Monica Attard, author of Russia: Which Way Paradise?