Epstein Files Expose Vast Network of Influence and Intimate Communications
The monumental release of approximately three million documents related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein has provided unprecedented insight into the extraordinary breadth of his social and professional network. While inclusion in these files does not imply any knowledge of or involvement in Epstein's criminal activities, the correspondence offers a startling window into his relationships with global elites across politics, royalty, business, and entertainment.
Norwegian Royalty and a Parisian 'Wife Hunt'
Among the most striking revelations is the extensive contact between Epstein and Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, spanning from 2011 to 2014. The files contain intimate messages where the princess told Epstein "you tickle my brain" and referred to him as "soft hearted" and "such a sweetheart." In one particularly revealing 2012 exchange, she inquired about the appropriateness of suggesting "two naked women carrying a surfboard" as wallpaper for her teenage sons.
Weeks prior, they had discussed Epstein being on a "wife hunt" in Paris, with Mette-Marit remarking that the French capital was "good for adultery" and that Scandinavians made "better wife material." In a statement, the crown princess has expressed regret, stating she showed "poor judgment," and a royal spokesperson confirmed she ended contact in 2014, believing Epstein was attempting to leverage their relationship.
Deepak Chopra's Involvement and Comments on Allegations
The documents detail a significant relationship between Epstein and the renowned wellness guru Deepak Chopra, who met with the financier at least twelve times between 2016 and 2019 for meditation and discussions on funding alternative health projects. Chopra attended intimate dinners at Epstein's New York residence, which also included figures like filmmaker Woody Allen, describing these nights out as "a blast."
In a concerning November 2016 exchange, Epstein forwarded a report to Chopra dismissing allegations from a woman with a history of drug use, who claimed she was assaulted by both Epstein and Donald Trump at age thirteen. When Epstein noted the civil charges had been dropped, Chopra's reply was a simple "Good." Chopra has since stated he is willing to cooperate with any authorised investigation.
Peter Mandelson's Memoir and Epstein's Stark Warning
The files have placed former UK ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, under police investigation for misconduct in public office. Mandelson, who described Epstein as his "chief life adviser," sent him a draft of his memoir, The Third Man: Life at the heart of New Labour, in May 2010.
Epstein's response was sharply critical, warning that the "gossipy" manuscript would drive "a commercial stake through your heart" and damage Mandelson's future dealmaking prospects by revealing a lack of discretion. He criticised the portrayals of Tony Blair as "frail" and Gordon Brown as "pig-headed," arguing the book was "not uplifting" but "gossipy and defensive." Mandelson defended the draft, maintains he has not acted criminally, and states he was deceived by a "master manipulator."
Defence Deals and Admiration from a Former Israeli PM
Ehud Barak, the former Israeli prime minister, is mentioned repeatedly in the files, which confirm he maintained regular contact with Epstein for years after the financier's 2008 guilty plea. The correspondence includes plans for a 2017 stay at Epstein's New York residence and discussions of dinner dates and meetings.
In a letter reportedly compiled for Epstein's 63rd birthday, Barak and his wife praised his boundless curiosity, describing him as "A COLLECTOR OF PEOPLE." Epstein himself told others that Barak was "next level" in arranging defence industry deals. Barak acknowledges the visits and flights on Epstein's plane but denies any knowledge of unlawful behaviour.
Billionaire's Request for Access to Kushner and Bannon
The documents suggest Anil Ambani, billionaire CEO of India's Reliance Group, initiated contact with Epstein in early 2017. Their extensive communications covered geopolitics and personal advice. In March 2017, Ambani indicated that leadership in Delhi sought access to Jared Kushner and Steve Bannon ahead of a proposed visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has dismissed the emails as "trashy ruminations" from a convicted criminal. There is no evidence Ambani knew of Epstein's illicit activities.
Strict Rulebook for Florida Mansion Staff
The full "household manual" for Epstein's Palm Beach mansion, previously glimpsed during Ghislaine Maxwell's trial, was included in the release. It imposed cult-like demands on staff, mandating they "see nothing, hear nothing, say nothing." Specific rules included maintaining air conditioning at 60°F, providing guns in bedside drawers, stocking large quantities of toiletries, and detailed instructions for the provision and placement of sex toys, referred to as a "vibe check."
Epstein's Crude Definition of Post-Prison 'Freedom'
In a July 2009 exchange with Peter Mandelson, shortly after Epstein's release from jail, the financier was asked how freedom felt. His reply was shockingly explicit: "She feels fresh firm and creamy." When Mandelson, then a Labour cabinet minister, asked how they should celebrate, Epstein suggested "With Grace and Modesty (those are the names of two strippers)." Mandelson responded that such "grace and modesty" should be discovered in London.
Introducing a 'Friend' for Prince Andrew
In the summer of 2010, Epstein proposed a dinner companion for the then-Prince Andrew, describing a 26-year-old Russian woman named Irina as "clever, beautiful, trustworthy." Andrew appeared eager, asking if she would bring a message and requesting her contact details. He also sought reassurance, asking what Epstein had told her about him. This exchange adds further context to the royal's already scrutinised relationship with the financier.
Woody Allen and a Downing Street Invitation
Epstein's ability to fulfil desires is illustrated in a 2011 exchange where PR consultant Ian Osborne forwarded a request from David Cameron's office. Staffers Steve Hilton and Rohan Silva expressed keen interest in meeting filmmaker Woody Allen. Epstein, after confirming the Prime Minister would be present, agreed to "strongly encourage" the meeting if it was important, showcasing his perceived power as a facilitator for the elite.
Steve Bannon's Image Management Advice
The files reveal a close relationship with former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, who acted as a mentor for Epstein's planned documentary series. Bannon offered grooming advice and strategic guidance, suggesting they "crush the pedo/trafficking narrative" and rebuild Epstein's image as a philanthropist. In a recorded interview, Bannon pointedly asked Epstein if he thought he was "the devil himself." Epstein's cryptic reply was, "No, but I do have a good mirror."
This vast document trove continues to unravel the complex web surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, highlighting not only his criminal legacy but also the disquieting ease with which he navigated the highest echelons of global society.
