Rupert Murdoch, the renowned 93-year-old media mogul, recently tied the knot for the fifth time with Elena Zhukova, a retired molecular biologist. The couple, who have a significant age difference of 30 years, celebrated their union on June 1, 2024, at Murdoch’s Moraga vineyard estate in Bel Air, Los Angeles. This marriage marks a new chapter in both their lives, bringing together Murdoch’s extensive media legacy and Zhukova’s scientific background.
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Table of Contents
Who Is Elena Zhukova?
Elena Zhukova, aged 67, is a retired molecular biologist with a specialization in diabetes research. She has made significant contributions to her field, particularly during her tenure at the University of California, Los Angeles. Originally from Moscow, she moved to the United States in 1991 during the final years of the Soviet Union. Her career in science has been marked by dedication and numerous achievements in diabetes research.
Elena Zhukova’s Background and Career
Elena Zhukova is a renowned molecular biologist, specializing in diabetes research. Her significant contributions to the field include extensive research work at the University of California, Los Angeles. Originally from Moscow, Zhukova moved to the United States in 1991 during the final years of the Soviet Union. She describes her family as part of the “usual, normal Moscow intelligentsia,” indicating a rich cultural and intellectual heritage.
Elena Zhukova’s Previous Marriages
Before her marriage to Murdoch, Zhukova was married twice. Her first marriage was to Russian oil billionaire Alexander Zhukov, with whom she has a daughter, Dasha Zhukova. Dasha, 42, is an arts patron and was previously married to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich. Elena’s second marriage details remain less publicized.
Elena and Alexander met as students in Moscow and were married in the early 1980s. They had their daughter Dasha before divorcing. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Zhukova moved to Houston, Texas, to continue her research, eventually settling in Los Angeles.
Meeting Rupert Murdoch
Elena Zhukova met Rupert Murdoch at a family gathering organized by his third wife, Wendi Deng, from whom he divorced in 2013. Wendi and Elena’s daughter Dasha are friends, facilitating the introduction between Elena and Murdoch. Their relationship blossomed quickly, leading to their engagement following Murdoch’s split from his ex-police chaplain fiancée Ann Lesley Smith in April 2023.
The Wedding
The wedding of Rupert Murdoch and Elena Zhukova was a private affair held at Murdoch’s vineyard estate. In the wedding photographs, Elena is seen wearing a long-sleeve gown with her hair styled in a loose bun, embodying a graceful and elegant look.
Rupert Murdoch’s Marriages
Rupert Murdoch’s marital history is as notable as his business career. His first marriage to Patricia Booker lasted from 1956 to 1967, producing one child. In the same year of his first divorce, he married Anna Maria Torv, with whom he had three children before divorcing in 1999. Murdoch’s third marriage was to Wendi Deng, lasting 14 years and resulting in two children. His fourth marriage was to actress and model Jerry Hall, ending in divorce in 2022 after six years.
Conclusion
Elena Zhukova’s marriage to Rupert Murdoch marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Zhukova’s background in molecular biology and her contributions to science, combined with Murdoch’s unparalleled legacy in the media industry, make for a fascinating partnership. As they embark on this new journey together, their story continues to captivate and inspire.
