Guy Who Launched Fox News May Take Over News Corp

by Stephan Tawney on July 18, 2011

Liberals are starting to celebrate reports that Rupert Murdoch may step down as chief executive officer (CEO) of News Corp. The reports actually say that no final decision has been made and that any move will depend upon Murdoch’s performance before British parliament.

But hold off those celebrations, libs. Everything’s not as chipper as you’d want to believe.

First, the same report indicates Murdoch would remain on as top boss — chairman of the board. Perhaps that’s because Murdoch is the single-largest direct holder of News Corp stock. He owns more than 4 million shares. The second-largest direct holder? His son, James Murdoch.

Second, the report says Chase Carey would be taking over as CEO. Carey currently serves as chief operating officer (COO) of News Corp. He’s Murdoch’s right-hand man. And he previously served as chief executive officer of Fox Broadcasting. His legacy while holding that position includes the launch of Fox News.

So if you want to celebrate the fact that Murdoch will still ultimately run the place but his current position would be taken over by his right-hand man who launched Fox News, go ahead. I just don’t see the point.



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