US6 min(s) read
Every celebrity named in the Epstein files who has spoken out - and what they have said
The latest and final release of Epstein-related files by the US government has once again expanded the list of high-profile names connected in some way to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The 3.5 million-page case file, comprising emails, photographs, bank records and investigative materials, includes references to some of the world’s most powerful business leaders, politicians, academics and celebrities.
While authorities have stressed that appearing in the documents does not automatically imply wrongdoing, many of those named have acted quickly to publicly distance themselves from some of the serious allegations made against them and the disgraced Epstein.
There are over 300 names of significance listed in the files that were published by the U.S. Department of Justice in January, and while some are merely referenced trivially in discussion, others have found themselves right at the very heart of the scandal, thanks to potentially incriminating evidence.
Trump, Musk, and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor responses
President Donald Trump; a name that is inextricably linked with Epstein, is mentioned multiple times in the files, including in a list compiled by the FBI of allegations submitted through its tip line. Many of those entries appear to be unverified claims without supporting evidence.
Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein, recently claiming that he had “nothing to hide” and that he had “been exonerated”, stating that he had severed ties with him decades ago. He has not been accused of crimes by Epstein’s victims.
Among the most prominent figures is Elon Musk. Emails show Epstein corresponding with Musk about travel plans and social events in 2012, including references to visiting Epstein’s island and when his most decadent parties may take place. Musk has said he never visited the island. In January, he posted on X that while the emails might be used to “smear” him, his concern remains focused on prosecuting those who committed serious crimes with Epstein.
Photographs included in the release show the recently-arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew) in images whose context remains unclear. He has repeatedly denied wrongdoing since the emergence of these pictures and allegations made against him by Virginia Giuffre, including in a 2019 interview with the BBC.
More billionaires and politicians have their say
Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates appears in two emails dated July 2013 that are written as though drafted by Epstein, though it is unclear whether they were genuine or ever sent. One email references alleged personal matters involving Gates. A spokesperson for Gates dismissed the claims as “absolutely absurd and completely false.” Gates’ former wife, Melinda French Gates, reflected publicly on the emotional toll of revisiting that period, expressing sympathy for Epstein’s victims and hope for justice.
British entrepreneur Richard Branson appears in several exchanges, including a 2013 email thanking Epstein for hospitality and referencing a “harem,” which Virgin Group says referred to adult staff members. The company stated that Branson’s contact with Epstein was limited to a few group or business settings more than a decade ago, and that once due diligence uncovered serious allegations, contact ceased and a proposed donation was rejected.
Former UK cabinet minister Peter Mandelson is also indelibly linked in the documents to financial transfers and correspondence, including arrangements to stay at an Epstein property. The Metropolitan Police have launched a criminal investigation into allegations that Mandelson passed market-sensitive information, though the ex-MP denies criminal conduct. He has expressed regret for maintaining contact with Epstein after his conviction and said he was never complicit in any crimes.
Former US President, Bill Clinton appears in previously released images dating back more than two decades. His spokesperson emphasized that the photos are old and that Clinton cut off contact before Epstein’s crimes came to light. Clinton has called for full release of the files and agreed to testify publicly before the House Oversight Committee.
Retail billionaire Leslie Wexner, a longtime associate of Epstein, is referenced in FBI documents, including as a potential “co-conspirator,” though that designation does not equate to charges. Wexner has previously said Epstein stole millions from him, and his lawyers have stated that US prosecutors viewed him as a source of information rather than a target.
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick acknowledged during congressional testimony in 2026 that he visited Epstein’s island in 2012 with his family, contradicting earlier statements that he had cut ties years before. Lutnick said he spent about an hour there while on vacation and later had one additional meeting. The Commerce Department stated he had limited interactions and has never been accused of wrongdoing.
Economist Larry Summers is referenced in connection with meetings and emails, including exchanges in which he and Epstein criticized Trump. Summers, who was once the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, previously said he took “full responsibility” for continuing communication with Epstein and resigned from several advisory roles after earlier disclosures.
Other public figures who have commented on their Epstein links
Film director Brett Ratner appears in a photograph seated beside Epstein and two women. Ratner told Fox News he met Epstein only once and said the woman he was pictured embracing was his fiancée at the time. There is no indication of wrongdoing in the files.
Linguist Noam Chomsky appears in emails advising Epstein on media strategy. His wife and spokesperson said Epstein manipulated the narrative and that Chomsky acted in good faith, never intending to minimize harm to victims.
Film producer Steve Tisch appears in emails inquiring about a woman he met at Epstein’s home. Tisch said he had only a brief association with Epstein, declined invitations, and never visited the island.
Casey Wasserman sent flirtatious emails to Ghislaine Maxwell in 2003. Wasserman said he deeply regrets the correspondence, which occurred long before Maxwell’s crimes became public.
Self-help author Deepak Chopra exchanged emails with Epstein years after his conviction, including messages that in retrospect appear in poor taste. Chopra has expressed regret for the tone of the correspondence, denied any criminal or exploitative conduct, and stated that any contact was limited and unrelated to abuse.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak corresponded with Epstein and stayed at his New York residence in 2017. Barak has acknowledged contact but said he never witnessed or participated in inappropriate behavior.