Rupert Murdoch, the media magnate at the age of 92, has disclosed his engagement to retired scientist Elena Zhukova, aged 67, culminating in their romance sparked by an introduction through Murdoch’s third wife, Wendi Deng.
This engagement comes following Murdoch’s recent disengagement from his previous fiancée, former police chaplain and vineyard owner Ann Lesley Smith, just a fortnight after its public announcement. According to reports by DailyMail.com, Murdoch and Zhukova commenced their courtship in August, as evidenced by their joint Mediterranean cruise during a family summer vacation. Currently, they are in the midst of planning a summer wedding to celebrate their union.
Elena Zhukova, renowned for being the mother of Dasha Zhukova, a prominent Russian socialite known for her marriage to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich, shares a close friendship with Wendi Deng and Dasha. Sources suggest that Elena’s introduction to the media tycoon was facilitated through these mutual connections, emphasizing the role of existing relationships in bringing the couple together.
The wedding invitations have already been dispatched, with the ceremony slated to take place in June at Murdoch’s California estate, Moraga, as reported by The New York Times. Zhukova, a twice-divorced molecular biologist with expertise in diabetes, has resided in America for over three decades since relocating from Russia in 1991. Prior to retirement, she contributed to the medical research unit at UCLA and now spends considerable time with her grandchildren from Dasha’s marriage to Roman Abramovich.
Dasha, who divorced Abramovich in 2019, has since remarried Stavros Niarchos, a billionaire heir. Murdoch, a seasoned veteran of matrimony with four previous marriages and six children, announced his decision to step down as chairman of Fox and News Corp in September, handing over the reins to his eldest son, Lachlan Murdoch.
Murdoch’s romantic journey has been eventful, marked by multiple engagements and marriages. His previous engagement to Ann Lesley Smith swiftly followed his divorce from fourth wife Jerry Hall, culminating in a whirlwind romance that captured media attention. Despite the complexities of his personal life, Murdoch remains optimistic about his newfound love, expressing confidence that this engagement will be his last.
Reflecting on his extensive family history, Murdoch’s legacy extends beyond his media empire, encompassing a rich tapestry of relationships and experiences. From his early marriage to former flight attendant Patricia to his lengthy union with journalist Anna, Murdoch’s life has been punctuated by significant milestones, including his high-profile weddings and divorces.
As Murdoch and Zhukova embark on this new chapter of their lives, their union symbolizes hope and rejuvenation, underscoring the enduring power of love and companionship amidst life’s ever-changing landscape. With their impending nuptials on the horizon, the couple looks forward to a future filled with promise and happiness, surrounded by loved ones as they begin this remarkable journey together.