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The Rise of the Murdoch Dynasty

Series 1

The Comeback

Duration: 59 minutes

First broadcast: on BBC Two EnglandLatest broadcast: on BBC Four HD

Available for 10 months

This episode follows the story of Rupert Murdoch’s remarkable journey from ‘the most humble day’ of his life to arguably his most powerful moment and the final conclusion to the question of succession within his own family.

Following a huge scandal, Rupert cuts a lonely figure. His political allies have deserted him, his reputation is in tatters, his beloved mother passes away, and to add insult to injury, revelations come to light about his wife’s infatuation with one of his friends, ex-prime minister Tony Blair, contributing to the break-up of his second marriage.

But Murdoch is tough - he feeds on conflict and revels in playing the underdog, a role he has cast himself in throughout his career. This film examines the source of his drive, determination and grit and the important influence of his father.

When two political hopefuls approach Rupert for help, he senses opportunity, and Murdoch’s star begins to rise again. Murdoch’s involvement in the US elections and the Brexit vote sees political relevance return. Murdoch marries his third wife, Jerry Hall, putting himself firmly back at the centre of the power elite, and his amazing comeback nears completion.

Murdoch’s empire is rocked by further scandals, but this time his sons intervene and the family pulls together. Then Murdoch surprises everyone with one final mega business deal worth 71 billion dollars and finally settles the burning question of which of his children will run the family business when he is gone. Show less

Contributors

Interviewed Guest:
Les Hinton
Interviewed Guest:
Andrew Neil
Interviewed Guest:
Alan Rusbridger
Interviewed Guest:
David Yelland
Director:
Jamie Roberts
Executive Producer:
David Glover
Executive Producer:
Cate Hall
Line Producer:
Sophie Wright
Series Producer:
Owen Phillips
Production Company:
72 Films
Interviewed Guest:
Alan Sugar
Interviewed Guest:
Nigel Farage
Interviewed Guest:
Sarah Ellison
Interviewed Guest:
Piers Morgan
Interviewed Guest:
Roy Greenslade
Interviewed Guest:
Ken Auletta
Interviewed Guest:
Jane Mayer
Interviewed Guest:
Gabriel Sherman
Interviewed Guest:
Steve Bannon
Interviewed Guest:
Anthony Scaramucci
Interviewed Guest:
Michael Heseltine

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