Who owns Fox News Group? This question has been a topic of great interest and debate among viewers and critics alike. Fox News, a cable news channel known for its conservative perspective, has been at the center of numerous discussions regarding its ownership and influence on American politics and media. In this article, we will delve into the history of Fox News Group and explore the key figures behind its ownership.
Fox News Group, also known as Fox Corporation, was founded by media magnate Roger Ailes in 1996. Ailes, a former Republican political consultant, envisioned a cable news channel that would offer a conservative alternative to the liberal bias he perceived in other news outlets. After Ailes’ passing in 2017, the ownership of Fox News Group went through several changes, leading to the current situation.
In 2015, 21st Century Fox, the parent company of Fox News Group, was acquired by Disney. This deal was valued at $52.4 billion and was finalized in 2019. As a result, Disney became the new owner of Fox News Group, including its television networks, cable channels, and other media assets. The acquisition was part of Disney’s strategy to expand its media and entertainment portfolio, which already included popular properties like ESPN, Pixar, and Marvel.
However, the ownership of Fox News Group did not end with Disney. In 2019, Disney decided to spin off its entertainment assets, including Fox News Group, into a new company called Fox Corporation. This move was aimed at creating a more focused and agile media company. Robert Iger, former CEO of Disney, became the CEO of Fox Corporation, and Lachlan Murdoch, son of media mogul Rupert Murdoch, became the chair of the company.
The ownership of Fox News Group has always been a subject of scrutiny, given its conservative slant and the influence it wields in American politics. Critics argue that the channel’s ownership by a company with significant financial interests in other sectors may lead to biased reporting and a skewed portrayal of news events. Proponents, on the other hand, argue that Fox News provides a valuable service by offering a diverse range of viewpoints and fostering healthy competition in the media landscape.
In conclusion, the ownership of Fox News Group has evolved over the years, from its inception under Roger Ailes to its current status as a division of Fox Corporation, owned by Disney. The channel’s conservative perspective continues to be a topic of debate, with some questioning its influence on American politics and others defending its role in promoting a free and diverse media environment. As the media landscape continues to change, the question of who owns Fox News Group remains a significant issue for both its critics and supporters.
