Hollywood actor Hugh Jackman showcased his rarely seen musical side by performing at Rupert Murdoch’s 95th birthday celebration in New York. The event featured Jackman delivering a selection of songs, highlighting his talent beyond acting while honoring the media mogul.
Song Choices and Special Moments from the Event
During the party, Jackman sang tracks from the hit film ‘The Greatest Showman,’ alongside timeless standards such as ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ and ‘New York, New York.’ He concluded his set with a moving rendition of ‘I Still Call Australia Home,’ paying tribute to his shared Australian roots with Murdoch. Although unable to attend in person, former President Donald Trump sent a video message extending his birthday wishes to Murdoch.
Donald Trump’s Birthday Tribute and Related Legal Dispute
In his message, Trump described Murdoch as a “legendary” media figure and “one of a kind,” commending his “courage, vision, and determination” and asserting that Murdoch “changed the world” through his work. Despite the cordial tone at the celebration, Trump has been involved in a high-profile legal battle against Murdoch and affiliated entities. According to reports, in July 2025, Trump filed a $20 billion lawsuit against Dow Jones, News Corp, Murdoch, and two Wall Street Journal reporters over a controversial story about a lewd birthday card allegedly sent by Trump to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Trump denied the authenticity of the letter, labeling it “fake news” and dismissing the Wall Street Journal as a “useless rag.”
Ivanka Trump’s Presence and Jackman’s Political Distance
Ivanka Trump attended Murdoch’s birthday party and was reportedly enthusiastic during Hugh Jackman’s performance. A source shared that she was “cheering (Hugh Jackman) on.” During a 2018 interview promoting ‘The Front Runner,’ Jackman addressed his personal connections with Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner, saying,
“I’ve known those guys for 15 years”
, and added,
“and we don’t talk politics at birthday parties.”
The Importance of the Event and What It Suggests
Hugh Jackman’s musical performance highlighted a more personal and celebratory side of the connection between Hollywood and media power. The gathering brought together figures from entertainment, media, and politics, demonstrating the complex relationships that cross professional and personal boundaries. Jackman’s choice to focus on music rather than politics created a rare moment of unity and reflection at an event marking a major milestone for Rupert Murdoch.
