Meet Elena Zhukova: Biologist Engaged To Media Mogul Rupert Murdoch, 92

Media mogul Rupert Murdoch, aged 92, has officially announced his engagement to Elena Zhukova, aged 67, as confirmed by his representatives. The former chairman of Fox and News Corp. has been romantically involved with the Russian molecular biologist since April of last year. This marks Murdoch's sixth engagement, with plans underway for a June wedding at Moraga, his California vineyard and estate. Interestingly, this development follows shortly after his brief engagement with conservative radio host Ann Lesley Smith, according to BBC reports.

Who is Elena Zhukova?

Elena Zhukova is a retired molecular biologist who specialises in diabetes research, with significant contributions made during her tenure at the University of California, Los Angeles. Hailing originally from Moscow, Elena Zhukova relocated to the United States in 1991, during the final years of the Soviet Union.

It was at a family gathering hosted by Wendi Deng, Rupert Murdoch's third former wife, that Elena Zhukova crossed paths with Murdoch. Murdoch and Deng were married for 14 years until their divorce in 2013.

Prior to her relationship with Murdoch, Elena Zhukova was married twice, including to Russian oil billionaire Alexander Zhukov. Together, they share a daughter named Dasha Zhukova, aged 42. Zhukova often reflects on her family's background as part of the "usual, normal Moscow intelligentsia," underscoring her ties to Moscow's cultural and intellectual milieu.

Rupert Murdoch, with a history of multiple marriages, divorced his fourth wife, supermodel Jerry Hall, in 2022. His previous spouses include Wendi Deng, Anna Murdoch Mann, and Patricia Booker. He is also the father of six children. Having stepped down from his chief role at News Corp. last year, Murdoch has entrusted the company's leadership to his son Lachlan.

Despite concerns about his health, News Corp.'s future appears stable, overseen by a family trust in which Murdoch and his four eldest children hold shares. As Murdoch prepares to celebrate his 93rd birthday on March 11, the media landscape remains closely watched for developments in the Murdoch family's business empire.