Errol Musk, the 79-year-old father of tech billionaire Elon Musk, has publicly asserted that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein remains alive, branding the official account of his prison death as "absurd." The controversial remarks were delivered during a primetime interview on Russian state television, a broadcaster under the direct control of President Vladimir Putin, where Errol Musk reiterated long-standing conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein's demise.
Conspiracy Theories on State Television
Jeffrey Epstein was discovered deceased in his prison cell on August 10, 2019, while awaiting trial on serious sex trafficking charges. His death, officially classified as a suicide by New York City's chief medical examiner, has spawned extensive speculation and numerous conspiracy narratives over subsequent years. During the Russian television appearance, Errol Musk expressed firm disbelief in the official verdict.
"In my opinion, it's absurd to think that he is dead. It's ridiculous," Errol Musk stated, prompting audible groans from the studio audience. Undeterred, he elaborated further, claiming, "The prison guards have come out to say that he was swapped out the night before he was supposed to commit suicide. The cameras were off at the wrong time, the guards went to sleep. It's absolutely absurd to think that this man is [dead]. He's alive and well."
Errol Musk's Russian Connections
Errol Musk is currently visiting Russia on a two-week trip, reportedly focusing on research projects with Russian scientists, according to the Moscow Times. His presence in the country coincides with Orthodox Easter celebrations, where he was observed attending a midnight service at Moscow's Christ the Saviour Cathedral. This service was also attended by President Putin, who made his annual appearance at the cathedral near the Kremlin.
Last year, Errol Musk expressed familial admiration for the Russian leader, stating, "as a family… we are a little bit in awe of Mr. Putin." He has previously praised Putin and even attributed his son Elon's strained relationship with former President Donald Trump to the billionaire entrepreneur himself.
Ceasefire Violations Amid Easter Observance
Putin's cathedral appearance occurred shortly after he declared a 32-hour ceasefire for the Orthodox Easter weekend, ordering Russian forces to halt hostilities from Saturday afternoon through Sunday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pledged to respect the ceasefire, viewing it as a potential foundation for peace initiatives, but warned of immediate military retaliation for any violations.
The Russian-declared truce was swiftly broken by Moscow's own forces. Ukraine's military command reported nearly 470 Russian violations of the ceasefire, including drone attacks on Ukrainian positions on Saturday evening. Serhii Kolesnychenko, a communications officer for Ukraine's 148th Separate Artillery Brigade, confirmed, "The ceasefire is not being observed by the Russian side."
During the Easter service, Putin delivered a festive message emphasizing spiritual values, stating, "The great holiday of Easter fills the hearts of millions of people with sincere joy, faith in the all-conquering power of life, in the triumph of love, goodness, and justice." Simultaneously, he praised "our heroes - the participants and veterans of the special military operation," referencing Russia's ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.
Errol Musk's interview and presence in Russia highlight his ongoing engagement with the country, even as geopolitical tensions persist. His comments about Jeffrey Epstein add to the enduring controversy surrounding the financier's death, while his alignment with Russian state media raises questions about the intersection of personal beliefs and international relations.
