Rupert Murdoch Marries For the Fifth Time at Age 93
Rupert Murdoch, the 93-year-old media mogul known for his extensive empire across various continents, has tied the knot once again. This time, his bride is Elena Zhukova, a retired biologist of Russian origin. The wedding took place on June 1, 2024, at Murdoch's expansive vineyard in California, marking his fifth marriage. Exclusive images from the event captured by media outlets showcase the couple arm in arm with Murdoch in a black suit and Zhukova donning an elegant off-the-shoulder white dress.
A History of High-Profile Marriages
Murdoch's marital history has been a constant subject of public interest. He was first married to Patricia Booker, an Australian flight attendant, from 1956 to 1967, followed by a 30-year-long marriage to British journalist Anna Torv. He then married Wendi Deng, a Yale University graduate, but divorced in 2013. His fourth marriage was to Jerry Hall, a former model, in 2022, which ended in divorce the following year. He briefly got engaged to Ann Lesley Smith in early 2023 before their split. Soon after, he met Elena Zhukova at a party organized by his ex-wife Wendi Deng.
The Wedding and Future Implications
The wedding was a star-studded event held at Murdoch's Moraga estate in California. Guests included influential figures like New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and CEO of News Corp Robert Thompson. Despite the grandeur, security measures ensured privacy, keeping paparazzi at bay. This marriage is not expected to impact the structure of Murdoch's companies, as they remain under a family trust controlled by Murdoch and his four eldest children. However, it brings renewed attention to Murdoch's personal life, providing fodder for both supporters and detractors alike.
- Murdoch's career has been as eventful as his personal life, beginning in Australia in the 1950s before expanding into the United Kingdom with the purchase of News of the World and The Sun in 1969. He later forayed into the American market, owning significant publications like the New York Post and the Wall Street Journal.
- In 1996, he launched Fox News, which remains the most-watched television news network in the United States. Although Murdoch stepped down from executive roles in Fox Corporation and News Corp in November 2023, his influence endures through his extensive media holdings.
- Elena Zhukova, Murdoch's new wife, is the ex-mother-in-law of Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich, adding another layer of high-profile connections to Murdoch's life. The couple met right after Murdoch's short-lived engagement to Ann Lesley Smith ended, providing a serendipitous meeting orchestrated by mutual acquaintances.
- Murdoch has six children from his previous marriages, who are prominent figures in their own right. The media tycoon continues to be a significant cultural and financial force, even at the age of 93.
