Rupert Murdoch is embroiled in a secretive legal battle with three of his children over the future leadership of his vast media empire, according to a report by The New York Times and based on a sealed court document.
The 93-year-old billionaire media mogul is reportedly fighting to leave his eldest son and chosen successor, Lachlan, firmly in charge of his television stations, newspapers and digital platforms.
The New York Times reports Rupert launched the motion last year to preserve as "a conservative political force" his media empire, which includes Fox News, Sky News, The Wall Street Journal, The Sun, the New York Post and The Australian, among other assets.
The legal action was intended to modify the Murdoch Family Trust, which currently distributes governance among Rupert's four eldest children — Lachlan, along with James, Elisabeth and Prudence.
The legal filings indicate Rupert intends to expand Lachlan's voting power within the trust, potentially marginalising dissenting voices among the other siblings in an effort to pre-empt discord that could impact strategic decisions and editorial policies across the media platforms.
James, Elisabeth and Prudence are described as "more politically moderate" than Rupert and Lachlan. The three "were caught completely off-guard by their father's effort to rewrite what was supposed to be an inviolable trust and have united to stop him", according to the New York Times.
Rupert's legal manoeuvre is reportedly being overseen by former US Attorney General William Barr.
The outcome could significantly shape the future of one of the world's most influential media conglomerates.
Neither Fox Corp, News Corp, nor representatives for Rupert Murdoch or his children have provided immediate comment on the matter.
It is unclear when the proceedings will be resolved, but a trial to determine whether Rupert is acting in good faith is expected to start in September.
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