Rupert Murdoch’s second wife and glamorous mainstay, Anna, had incalculable influence
Sydney Morning Herald
by Mark McGinnessFebruary 20, 2026
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Anna Murdoch Mann Depeyster, Rupert Murdoch's second wife and mother to three of his children—Elisabeth, Lachlan, and James—played a pivotal role in shaping both her husband’s media empire and their personal lives. Though their 31-year marriage ended in divorce in 1999, Anna remained a influential figure within the Murdoch family and News Corporation. Her steady support during Rupert's rise to global media prominence left an indelible mark on both his career and their children’s futures.
Born in Estonia, Anna faced a challenging upbringing marked by her family’s immigration to Scotland and later Australia. Despite these hardships, she carved out a successful career in journalism, which ultimately brought her into contact with Rupert Murdoch. Their relationship began while he was still married to his first wife, Patricia Booker, but after their divorce, they wed in 1967. Anna's shrewd business acumen and unwavering support ensured that their children maintained a significant stake in the family’s media empire.
After their separation, Anna continued to hold considerable influence within News Corporation, particularly through her role as a mother to Rupert's children. Her enduring connection to the Murdoch dynasty underscored her importance not only as a partner but also as a key player in one of the world's most powerful media empires.
Anna’s story highlights the often-overlooked role of women like her in shaping the trajectories of influential figures and business empires. Her life journey from a
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026