Murdoch’s Power In American Journalism (Press, 14 January 1977)

On 14 January 1977, reports emerged about Rupert Murdoch's aggressive takeover of significant New York publications, marking a pivotal moment in the city's journalism landscape. Murdoch, an Australian media magnate, had previously established himself as a formidable figure in journalism and had recently acquired the "New York Magazine" group shortly after becoming publisher of the “Post,” New York’s sole afternoon newspaper. He announced ambitious plans to rejuvenate the "Post," aiming to boost its circulation to one million. As part of his acquisitions, Murdoch gained control of "New York Magazine" and its affiliated publication, the "Village Voice." The existing publisher, Clay Felker, ended a tumultuous battle with Murdoch by selling his 10 per cent stake in the magazine group, a share valued at approximately NZD 1.3 million. Having founded "New York Magazine," Felker indicated he would launch new publications but would not directly compete with Murdoch’s media empire. The takeover was fiercely contested, with critics relying on public opposition rather than financial power to fight back. Some employees at "New York Magazine" and its California counterpart "New West" even staged strikes against Murdoch's takeover, but ultimately, his financial resources prevailed. Critics expressed concerns that Murdoch might lower the quality of editorial content, fearing a decline in journalistic standards reminiscent of some of his existing publications, like London's “Sun.” Though "New York Magazine," the "Village Voice," and "New West" had previously taken bold stances on issues including sexuality, some writers were apprehensive about the potential changes under Murdoch's leadership. Despite such concerns, Murdoch’s acquisition of these publications positioned him as a major influence in American journalism almost overnight. At just 45 years old, Rupert Murdoch had already established a notable publishing empire, having moved from his beginnings in Australia to successful ventures in Britain, including the purchase of the "News of the World" and the transformation of the "Sun." After achieving success in the UK, he turned his sights to the United States, where he launched the “Star” and acquired two newspapers in San Antonio, Texas, implementing a successful formula focused on sensationalism. The dynamics of the New York journalism scene were about to change significantly with Murdoch's influence looming large. His ambition and approach invoked strong reactions among journalistic professionals, igniting debates over the future of quality journalism in the face of commercial pressures. The landscape had been altered, but with Murdoch’s track record, it remained to be seen how his editorial vision would reshape the publications under his control.

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