Anna Murdoch-Mann, the author and philanthropist, passed away at 81 in Palm Beach, Florida. She was the former wife of Australian media mogul Rupert Murdoch. During their 31-year marriage, Anna was instrumental in building News Corp and had three children with Rupert: Elizabeth, James, and Lachlan, who is now the chairman of the company. The couple divorced in 1998, following Rupert’s affair, and finalized their divorce in 1999, with Anna receiving a settlement of $1.7 billion.
Biographers note Anna’s significant influence on the Murdoch empire, particularly during its growth in the ’80s and ’90s. She was once considered a potential successor to Rupert Murdoch. Anna described her marriage as difficult, highlighting Rupert’s harshness. Even after their divorce, she maintained a desire to keep the family united amidst succession battles.
Born in Glasgow and raised in a working-class Sydney suburb, Anna entered journalism early and met Rupert at the Sydney Daily Mirror. She authored several novels, including one predicting family rifts reminiscent of those in her own life. Active in philanthropy, Anna held leadership roles in several hospitals and was recognized by Pope John Paul II. She leaves behind a legacy marked by both personal challenges and a significant role in the media landscape.
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