CBS News Decides to Keep Peter Attia On Board Following Epstein Email Revelations
Internal sources at CBS News indicate that the network has unofficially resolved to retain Peter Attia, a longevity expert and on-air contributor, despite the recent disclosure of inappropriate communications between Attia and the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This decision comes two weeks after a trove of documents released by the justice department exposed extensive and graphic email exchanges, raising questions about Attia's association with Epstein.
Internal Staff Reactions and Official Silence
According to a CBS News staffer who spoke anonymously to the Guardian, "Everyone internally unofficially concluded he was staying as of about a week ago." The network has maintained official silence on the matter, declining to comment when approached last Friday. Attia was among 19 contributors announced by editor-in-chief Bari Weiss during an all-staff meeting on January 27, with Weiss expressing excitement about the new hires.
However, not all staff members are pleased with the decision. A second unauthorized staffer stated, "We're pissed off about it," highlighting internal discontent. CBS News had promoted these contributors as experts in their fields, aiming to expand the network's knowledge base, with Attia known for his podcast and work in longevity and preventative medicine, though he faces skepticism from some medical professionals.
Details of the Email Exchanges and Attia's Apology
The justice department's release of millions of documents revealed that Attia had expressed fondness for Epstein and used extremely graphic language in at least one email. A search of Attia's name in the database returns 1,838 results, underscoring the volume of correspondence.
- In a January 2016 email to Epstein's assistant, Attia wrote, "I go into JE withdrawal when I don't see him."
- A year earlier, in an exchange with Epstein, Attia hinted at knowledge of Epstein's misdeeds, writing, "You [know] the biggest problem with becoming friends with you? The life you lead is so outrageous, and yet I can't tell a soul ..."
- In a particularly lewd 2016 email, Attia remarked to Epstein, "Pussy is, indeed, low carb. Still awaiting results on gluten content, though."
- Attia also stayed at one of Epstein's apartments, as noted in a February 2016 email where he commented, "I'm spoiled after staying in your great place. Mine is kind of a dump."
On February 2, Attia issued a public apology via a message to his employees, denying involvement in any criminal activity and stating that his interactions with Epstein were unrelated to sexual abuse. He admitted to meeting Epstein seven or eight times between 2014 and 2019 for research purposes and answering medical questions, but emphasized, "The man I am today, roughly 10 years later, would not write them and would not associate with Epstein at all."
Impact on CBS News Programming and External Criticism
Attia had previously appeared in an October episode of 60 Minutes, interviewed by correspondent Norah O'Donnell, who praised him as a pioneer in longevity medicine. However, CBS decided against re-airing this interview on Super Bowl Sunday, February 8, amid the backlash from the email revelations.
While Attia remains on the payroll as a contributor, it is unclear when or if he will appear on air again. Weiss had encouraged shows to book the new contributors, but programs are not obligated to feature specific individuals. Attia has maintained a low profile, with no recent posts on X or new episodes of his podcast, The Peter Attia Drive, this month.
External criticism has mounted, with former CBS News medical correspondent Jennifer Ashton condemning the network's inaction on Instagram, stating, "The fact that CBS News hasn't taken action is deeply troubling. People have been fired from network television for far less. Morality clauses exist for a reason." Similarly, menopause specialist Mary Claire Haver announced she would not appear on CBS Mornings to promote her book, citing the decision to retain Attia as a reason to boycott the network.
This controversy highlights ongoing challenges in media ethics and the repercussions of personal associations in professional settings, as CBS News navigates the fallout from Attia's past communications.
