TV Critic James Poniewozik on the Murdochs and 'Succession' | 11

The Murdoch media empire and the rise of Donald Trump share a symbiotic relationship rooted in the evolution of television and tabloid-style journalism. James Poniewozik, chief television critic for the New York Times, notes how Rupert Murdoch’s tabloid sensibility—characterized by gossip and sensationalism—created the fertile ground necessary for Trump to cultivate his public persona. This media landscape shifted further with the advent of 24-hour cable news, where networks like CNN and later Fox News prioritized spectacle and partisan niche-marketing over traditional reporting. The HBO series *Succession* mirrors this reality, capturing the cynical, untouchable nature of ultra-wealthy dynasties. These figures operate on a distinct moral plane, wielding immense influence over culture and politics while remaining insulated from the mundane concerns of the general public.