Anna Murdoch-Mann, author and ex-wife of Rupert Murdoch, dies aged 81

The Guardian World

by Sara Braun

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Anna Murdoch-Mann, the former wife of media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and a renowned philanthropist, passed away at her home in Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday at the age of 81. Her death was reported by the New York Post, one of the many media outlets controlled by her ex-husband. Anna, who was the mother of three of Rupert’s children—Elisabeth, James, and Lachlan Murdoch—was a prominent figure in both the worlds of media and philanthropy. Born into a wealthy family, Anna attended Oxford University before marrying Rupert Murdoch in 1950. During her marriage to Murdoch, she played a significant role in the development of The Times newspaper, which later became one of the most influential publications in the UK. After their divorce in 1967, Anna pursued her own career and philanthropic efforts, focusing on education and the arts. She was known for her dedication to fostering cultural and educational initiatives, particularly in London. Anna’s passing marks a significant moment not just for her family but also for the broader media landscape. As the mother of three key figures in Rupert Murdoch’s business empire, her influence extended beyond her personal life into the corridors of power and media ownership. Her story is intertwined with the history of the Murdoch dynasty, which has long been a subject of interest for those following global media and politics. For readers interested in world affairs and media history, Anna Murdoch-Mann’s life offers insight into the complex dynamics of one of the most influential families in journalism. Her legacy as a philanthropist and her role as a matriarch within the Murdoch empire make her death a notable event, reflecting both personal loss and a shifting chapter in media history.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026