The two women photographed alongside the late physicist Stephen Hawking on Jeffrey Epstein's private island have been identified as his long-term carers, according to sources close to the Hawking family. This revelation comes amid the release of a vast cache of documents from the US Department of Justice, which includes hundreds of mentions of Hawking's name, though he has never been accused of any wrongdoing.
Photo Context and Identification
A picture from the Epstein files shows Professor Hawking holding a drink and reclining in a chair in a tropical setting, with two women in swimsuits beside him. The identities of these women were initially censored in the released documents, but it is now understood they were his carers. The photograph was taken at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes in April 2007 and was widely circulated in an unredacted version that same year.
Family Statement and Rejection of Allegations
A spokesperson for the Hawking family has strongly rejected any insinuation of inappropriate conduct, describing such claims as "far-fetched and extreme." In a statement, they emphasized Hawking's monumental contributions to physics while battling motor neurone disease, which left him reliant on a ventilator, voice synthesiser, wheelchair, and constant medical care. They asserted that it would be wrong to imply any misconduct on his part.
Hawking's Visits to Epstein's Island
Professor Hawking visited Little St James, Epstein's private island, in 2012 as part of a science event organized by the Jeffrey Epstein VI Foundation. He was one of 21 scientists invited to discuss topics such as defining gravity, relax on the beach, and explore the island retreat. The foundation noted that the gathering was for intellectual discourse and leisure, not for any illicit activities.
Epstein's Accommodations for Hawking
Jeffrey Epstein was known for courting scientists and went to extraordinary lengths to accommodate Hawking during his visits. For instance, Epstein had a submarine specially modified to allow Hawking to experience an underwater tour of Little St James, marking a first in the physicist's life. This highlights the lengths to which Epstein went to engage with prominent figures in science.
Background on Hawking's Health and Care
Stephen Hawking, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 74, had been using a wheelchair since the 1960s due to motor neurone disease. As his condition worsened, he required round-the-clock care, which included the assistance of long-term carers like those pictured. The photo was first published in 2008 on a blog about disabled access and travel, written by his carer Monica Guy, with Hawking's full permission.
Implications of the Epstein Files
While Hawking's name appears hundreds of times in the 3.5 million documents released, being mentioned does not equate to an accusation of wrongdoing. The files have sparked widespread speculation, but in Hawking's case, the evidence points to innocent interactions focused on scientific and personal care needs. The family's firm stance aims to clear his name amid the ongoing scrutiny of Epstein's associates.
