Media News Daily: Top Stories for 09/09/2025

Murdoch Family Settles Succession Dispute, Secures Fox News Control for Lachlan Murdoch

The Murdoch family has finalized a trust agreement ensuring Lachlan Murdoch retains long-term control of Fox News and other media holdings after Rupert Murdoch’s death. Lachlan’s older siblings — Prudence, Elisabeth, and James — relinquish control claims in exchange for $3.3 billion in stock. The trust, set to remain until 2050, resolves a high-profile legal battle and cements the conservative trajectory of Fox News. Court documents dubbed James Murdoch the “troublesome beneficiary” in a case known internally as “Project Family Harmony.” Read More (AP News Rating)

CBS News Appoints Kenneth Weinstein as First-Ever Ombudsman, With Ties to Trump-Era Institutions

CBS News has named Kenneth R. Weinstein, former head of the conservative-leaning Hudson Institute and Trump-era ambassador nominee, as its first ombudsman. The move fulfills a condition of Skydance Media’s merger with Paramount, approved by the FCC in July. Weinstein’s role involves reviewing complaints from viewers and staff, and escalating those deemed significant to CBS leadership. His appointment highlights CBS’s effort to bolster trust as conservative influence rises at competing outlets. Read More (The Desk Rating)

PubMatic Sues Google Over Alleged Ad Tech Monopoly

PubMatic has filed a lawsuit against Google, accusing the tech giant of monopolizing the digital ad exchange market. The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, claims Google’s control of both the buy- and sell-side stifled competition and innovation. CEO Rejeev Goel said the legal action aims to reform the ad landscape and support a more open, AI-driven internet. PubMatic joins OpenX Technologies, which also sued Google in August for similar anticompetitive behavior. Read More (MediaPost Rating)