On the Media McKay Coppins on The Murdochs
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Jul 30, 2025 
McKay Coppins, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his in-depth interviews with the Murdoch family, dives into the family’s intricate dynamics in this discussion. He reveals the sibling rivalry and political battles that threaten their media empire’s unity. Coppins also discusses the fallout from the infamous phone hacking scandal and how it impacted James Murdoch's career. Additionally, he draws fascinating connections between the Murdoch family's realities and the dramatized conflicts portrayed in HBO's 'Succession,' highlighting the enduring influence of their narrative on American media.
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Political Divides Within Murdoch Family
- Lachlan Murdoch shares his father's conservative politics; James and his sisters are embarrassed by some Fox News content.
- Rupert fears James and siblings might alter his legacy if the family trust remains unchanged.
James Murdoch’s Outsider Adolescence
- James Murdoch lived mostly alone in his family's New York penthouse during adolescence with a butler's care.
- This independence shaped his unique identity including interests in archaeology and underground hip hop.
James Murdoch’s Hip-Hop Venture
- James Murdoch dropped out of Harvard and started a hip hop label decorated with a Mao poster.
- Rupert Murdoch folded this business into News Corp, appointing James head of digital publishing despite his frustrations.
