The News Corp network

Rupert’s Murdoch media empire has been in a state of upheaval since July 2011, when it was revealed that the News of the World had hacked the voicemail messages of a murdered teenager.

The revelation not only led to the closure of the family company´s best selling newspaper, but also to investigations in the UK and US, the abandonment of News Corp’s bid for BSkyB, and the decision to split News Corp in two.

Less noticed has been the ensuing changes in the empire’s top ranks. Exits because of the scandal, knock-on reshuffles and preparations for News Corp’s June 2013 split robbed Mr Murdoch of some long-term confidants but made room for a new group of acolytes and advisers.

Despite upheavals that have caused deep rifts in his family, the dynastic empire-builder has managed to ensure that his sons Lachlan and James are once again in a position to succeed him.