An ongoing roundup of some of our favorite people. This week, it’s all about legacy.
Anna Murdoch Mann
As if ripped out of a scene from Succession, the quiet and elegant Palm Beach resident—former wife of Rupert Murdoch and mother of his children Elizabeth, Lachlan, and James—is thought to be the mastermind of the family’s current protracted legal battle, now playing out in a Nevada courtroom. It is said that at the time of her divorce in 1999, she insisted on the creation of family trusts now being disputed by her ex-husband, in an effort for her children to have fair and equitable access to his now $20-billion+ media empire. It seems she may have been the most prophetic of all.
Lesly Stockard Smith
Few families have served the Palm Beach community in a more significant way than fashionable doyenne and former Mayor Lesly Smith. She held the seat from 2000-05, which set the stage for her popular daughter, current Mayor Danielle Moore. Yet it was her beloved husband Ambassador Earle E.T. Smith who first served the family proud in that capacity from 1971-77. In addition, the family runs the Fortin Foundation of Florida, providing millions of dollars in support to worthy local charities. Brava!
Eleanor Acquavella Dejoux
The art market continues to be an integral focus of Palm Beach conversation. At the forefront is Eleanor Acquavella Dejoux, scion of the legendary Acquavella Gallery dynasty, whose recent shows include last year’s much buzzed about Calder: Exposing Motion. More are slated to be announced this season. She rules the roost at arguably the most storied roost in town.