Rupert Murdoch, the media tycoon, celebrated his 95th birthday on March 11 with a private event in Midtown Manhattan, featuring a special Hugh Jackman birthday performance. The acclaimed Australian actor and singer entertained guests with a selection of classic songs at The Grill, marking the occasion with heartfelt renditions including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “New York, New York,” and “I Still Call Australia Home.”
The intimate gathering brought together celebrities and family members to honor the billionaire businessman, highlighting Jackman’s dual talents as both an actor and singer. The celebration also included a video message from former U.S. President Donald Trump, while Ivanka Trump, his daughter, was spotted applauding Jackman’s performance from the audience.
Details of the Exclusive Celebration
The party took place at The Grill in Midtown Manhattan, where Rupert Murdoch was joined by his wife, Elena Zhukova, age 69, whom he married earlier in 2024. Family attendance was notable, with his children Lachlan, Grace, and Chloe present, while Prudence, Elisabeth, and James were absent.
The Murdoch family has recently concluded a long-standing dispute over control of the family’s media trust, with Lachlan Murdoch set to assume leadership of the expansive empire. This media conglomerate encompasses outlets such as The Times, The Sun, The Wall Street Journal, Fox News, and The New York Post.
The Origins of Hugh Jackman and Rupert Murdoch’s Friendship
Hugh Jackman shared insights about his connection with Rupert Murdoch during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. Their friendship began in a relaxed, family-oriented setting alongside actress Nicole Kidman, a close friend of Murdoch’s former wife, Wendi Deng.
Wendi [Deng, Rupert’s third wife] and Nicole Kidman were very good friends,
Jackman said.
It was Nicole’s birthday, and we all went to Soho House in New York, and we were in the pool. He was holding his daughter, and I was holding my son, and we became friends.
-Hugh Jackman, Actor
Reflecting on Rupert Murdoch’s character, Jackman described the media owner as deeply loyal and caring towards his inner circle.
A lot of people in his life are there for a long time,
he said.
He looks after them and appreciates them. He’s very caring and thoughtful and incredibly respectful of everybody around him.
-Hugh Jackman, Actor
High-Profile Guests and Family Dynamics at the Celebration
The gathering featured an array of prominent figures, including the Murdoch children in attendance and notable guests from the worlds of business and entertainment. Ivanka Trump’s presence was particularly noted as she supported Jackman’s performance.
This birthday marks a milestone not only for Murdoch but also for his family, who have been navigating complex succession plans following murmurings of internal disputes. Lachlan’s imminent takeover signifies a new chapter for the media empire that has wielded significant influence across the UK, USA, and beyond.
The Cultural Significance of the Event and What Lies Ahead
The celebration demonstrated the blend of business, family, and culture surrounding Rupert Murdoch’s life. Having an actor of Hugh Jackman’s stature perform signaled the importance of personal relationships alongside corporate interests. The choice of songs like “I Still Call Australia Home” also underscored a shared Australian identity that links the two men.
With Lachlan Murdoch poised to lead the conglomerate, this event may become emblematic of a generational shift within the media powerhouse. Hugh Jackman’s birthday performance not only honored Rupert Murdoch’s legacy but also highlighted the close ties between prominent Australian figures operating on the global stage.
