It looks like Rupert Murdoch has decided that his son will take over the company that owns Fox News along with the other Fox networks, the movie companies and Sky TV. The good news is, FNC chief Roger Ailes can't be happy about it.
From the New York Times:
Rupert Murdoch, the 84-year-old chief executive of 21st Century Fox, is planning to hand over the reins of the media conglomerate to his son James, two people briefed on the plans said Thursday.
The elder Mr. Murdoch will remain at the company as executive chairman, and his son Lachlan is moving from Australia to Los Angeles to become co-executive chairman, the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
The exact timing for the changes is unclear, but it is said to be part of Mr. Murdoch’s long-term succession planning with the board. The changes are expected to be discussed at a board meeting next week, one person said.
Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that there will be any immediate changes at Fox News, despite the fact that Roger Ailes is reportedly no fan of either Murdoch son. From Media Matters:
James Murdoch has reportedly drawn the ire of Fox News chief Roger Ailes, who allegedly called him a "fucking dope" over his inability to contain the hacking scandal. (Fox News media critic Howard Kurtz claims that despite James Murdoch's new position, "Ailes will still report to Rupert.")
A source quoted by CNBC claims "James will have the primary role in running Fox while Lachlan will take on a broader strategic role from his co-chairman position." Lachlan Murdoch has also reportedly butted heads with Ailes in the past.
Media Matters also noted that James Murdoch has donated more than $1 million to the much-maligned-on-Fox Clinton Foundation. Also, while James has donated to both Democrats and Republicans, he gave the maximum amount to Hillary Clinton's 2008 presidential campaign.
Stay tuned!
Graphic credit: DonkeyHotey via photopin cc
Ruthless is slowly retiring from running his companies (insert happy dance). Soon, he will retire from News Corporation (insert more happy dance).
Nixon Trainee Ailes is not willing to risk his position as Fox “News” head chief, so he will keep his personal opinions about Rutless’ sons private.
It would be in the best interests of 21st Century Fox to get rid of Ailes. James Murdoch can, and should make this his number one priority! We are confident that James can find a more competent leader for the network. He knows many people who can run Fox “News” better than Ailes, who should retire.
