9 Shocking Facts That Reveal News Corp Controversial Power Over Global Media

📢 Introduction: The Giant Behind the Headlines

News Corp, one of the most influential media conglomerates in the world, has long been at the center of both groundbreaking journalism and controversial scandals. From owning massive newspapers to dictating global media narratives, its legacy spans continents and industries.

The company—founded and controlled by media mogul Rupert Murdoch—has had a major impact on politics, culture, business, and how billions of people consume news and entertainment. This article dives deep into News Corp’s history, key facts, significance, and the invisible ways it shapes our daily lives.

🕰️ History of News Corp: From Adelaide to the Globe

🔹 Humble Beginnings (1920s–1950s)

• News Corp’s roots trace back to 1923, when Keith Murdoch, Rupert’s father, took control of the Adelaide-based News.

• Rupert Murdoch inherited the business in 1952 after his father’s death and began expanding aggressively.

🔹 Global Expansion (1960s–1980s)

• In the 1960s, Murdoch acquired The Sun and News of the World in the UK.

• In the US, he entered the market with purchases like the New York Post.

• In 1979, Murdoch established News Corporation Limited in Australia, a precursor to today’s News Corp.

🔹 Empire Building (1980s–2000s)

• Major acquisitions included:

  • The Times (UK)

  • HarperCollins (publishing)

  • 20th Century Fox (film and TV)

  • Fox News Channel (1996)

• Murdoch became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1985 to comply with media ownership laws.

🔹 The Great Split (2013)

• News Corp was split into two separate entities:

  • 21st Century Fox (entertainment assets)

  • News Corp (New): retained print, publishing, and real estate interests.

• This move helped insulate the publishing arm from the volatile entertainment market and scandals.

📅 Timeline: Key Events in News Corp’s History

📊 9 Shocking Facts About News Corp

1. Owns more than 100 media brands across the U.S., UK, and Australia.

2. Rupert Murdoch’s family still controls the company through a dual-class share structure.

3. Its UK tabloid News of the World was closed after a major phone hacking scandal.

4. News Corp controls over 60% of Australia’s newspaper circulation.

5. It owns real estate digital giants like Realtor.com and REA Group.

6. Fox News (now part of Fox Corp) was once News Corp’s brainchild and remains a Murdoch interest.

7. In 2019, Disney purchased 21st Century Fox, not News Corp.

8. Owns HarperCollins, one of the world’s top five publishing houses.

9. Still wields tremendous political influence in U.S., UK, and Australian elections.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What does News Corp own today?

A. News Corp owns The Wall Street Journal, New York Post, The Times (UK), The Australian, HarperCollins Publishers, and real estate platforms like Realtor.com and REA Group.

Q2. Is News Corp the same as Fox News?

A. No. In 2013, News Corp split, and Fox News became part of Fox Corporation. Both are still controlled by the Murdoch family but are now legally separate entities.

Q3. Why was News of the World shut down?

A. Due to a massive phone-hacking scandal in 2011, where journalists hacked into voicemails of celebrities, politicians, and even a murdered schoolgirl. Public outcry forced its closure.

Q4. Who controls News Corp today?

A. Rupert Murdoch was executive chairman until 2023, when Lachlan Murdoch, his son, took on more executive responsibilities. However, Rupert Murdoch still retains voting control.

Q5. What is News Corp’s business strategy now?

A. Focusing on digital growth, paid subscriptions, and real estate tech, along with continued dominance in publishing.

✨ Significance of News Corp in Modern Society

1. Influencing Global Political Narratives

News Corp’s newspapers and networks have helped shape elections and policy debates, especially in the U.S., UK, and Australia.

2. Controlling the Print Landscape

In Australia, News Corp’s dominance has led to concerns over media plurality—raising questions about how concentrated media should be.

3. Popularizing Conservative Commentary

Through outlets like Fox News, News Corp helped mainstream conservative opinions in American politics and media.

4. Driving Print-to-Digital Journalism

Its shift to digital platforms showcases how traditional publishers can transform amidst the collapse of print.

5. Cross-Media Integration

Few companies operate across print, digital, publishing, and real estate, giving News Corp influence in multiple industries.

💭 Wishing a Transparent, Accountable Future

We extend a sincere wish that News Corp:

• Continues to support quality journalism

• Invests in truth and transparency

• Encourages independent editorial voices

• Learns from past scandals and restores public trust

In a world of growing misinformation, media conglomerates must act responsibly, especially ones with global reach like News Corp.

📌 Key Takeaways and Important Points

• News Corp is a media powerhouse with global influence.

• Its journey is marked by acquisitions, scandals, and transformation.

• Owns leading outlets like WSJ, Times UK, and HarperCollins.

• Plays a major role in political communication and public opinion.

• Now focused on digital journalism and property media.

• Its impact on democracy, society, and culture is both deep and controversial.

🏠 Why News Corp Matters in Our Daily Lives

🔍 Information Access

From financial advice on WSJ to real estate listings on Realtor.com, News Corp products are embedded in our routines.

📣 Social Dialogue

Their news outlets help shape what people talk about, tweet, and protest—influencing national conversations.

🗳️ Political Awareness

News Corp channels often frame how citizens view elections, policies, and leaders—affecting democracy itself.

📚 Cultural Production

With HarperCollins, News Corp affects what we read, from bestselling novels to academic texts.

🧭 Conclusion: News Corp’s Influence—Good, Bad, or Necessary?

News Corp stands as a paradox—a protector of journalism and a magnet for controversy. Its power over media, politics, and public opinion cannot be overstated. Whether viewed as a media visionary or a monopoly, its impact on society is both profound and undeniable.

What remains clear is this: In the age of information wars, organizations like News Corp must lead with responsibility, integrity, and openness. Because with great media power comes even greater societal accountability.