Emily Maitlis, the journalist who conducted the infamous 2019 Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew about his links to Jeffrey Epstein, is to front a new Channel 4 documentary series titled The Epstein Files (working title).
The series will feature first-hand testimony from survivors and forensic analysis of documents, networks and powerful individuals connected to Epstein’s decades-long criminal operation, according to Channel 4. Maitlis, who now presents the top-rated podcast The News Agents, said she aims to answer how Epstein evaded justice for so long.
Maitlis’s interview with then-Prince Andrew became a global humiliation for the royal, who has since been stripped of his titles but still faces questions over his Epstein links. Two dramas have been made about the interview, with Maitlis portrayed by Gillian Anderson and Ruth Wilson; she executive produced the latter for Amazon.
“I’ve spent my career covering stories that those in power would rather we didn’t,” said Maitlis. “The Epstein case is that story writ large — a web of wealth, influence and impunity that destroyed lives and was shielded by institutions we are supposed to trust. The survivors have waited long enough. I am determined that this series will provide answers, not just raise more questions.”
The documentary is produced by All3Media-backed Lion TV in association with All3Media International, with Daniel Pearl as executive producer and Catey Sexton as director. It was commissioned by Louisa Compton, Head of News, Current Affairs and Specialist Factual and Sport at Channel 4, and Adam Vandermark, Commissioning Editor, News and Current Affairs. All3Media will handle international distribution.
