Succession: Murdochs is a way better show

Settlement of an epic succession battle over Rupert Murdoch's empire - inspiration of the HBO series Succession (pic) - consolidates conservative control over vastly influential media outlets. Lachlan, Rupert's third-eldest child (eldest son) and chosen heir, has consolidated his inheritance, having persuaded one group of siblings to sell their shares for extra cash. He's convinced children from another of his father's marriages not to sell their shares till 2050. This should ensure Lachlan, considered the most conservative of the lot, runs Fox News and News Corp as his dad intended them to be. He had been holding out over payments. But a messy courtroom drama convinced the family to renegotiate. Odds of a corporate coup against Lachlan have dimmed.

Bundling his legacy in conservative control has been vital to Murdoch Sr's succession planning. His media group has considerable influence on politics across three continents. Which makes it as much an object of public curiosity as the news it produces. Politics is turning decidedly right globally, and management of a significant media voice benefits from being in the thick of things. It just won't do to allow a family revolt to let in outsiders whose politics may not align with those of Murdoch pere. The media baron has, thus, gone to extraordinary lengths to get his squabbling children to an agreement that perpetuates his influence.

Influence is hard to retain in a media industry that has been upended by technology. Audiences are spending more time on content they create themselves rather than by dedicated professionals. Which perhaps explains Rupert Murdoch's attempt to hold on to the voice he has attained over a lifetime of audacious acquisitions. A much better ending than that show.