Newly released documents from the US Department of Justice reveal that Elon Musk had more extensive and friendly communications with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein than previously publicly known. Emails from 2012 and 2013 show the two men exchanging cordial messages and making plans for Musk to visit Epstein's private island, Little St James.
In December 2013, Musk emailed Epstein asking if there was a good time to visit while he was in the area. Epstein replied, “any day 1st - 8th . play it by ear if you want. always space for you.” The two eventually settled on 2 January, but Epstein later cancelled, saying he had to remain in New York and was “really looking forward to finally spending some time together with just fun as the agenda.”
An earlier exchange in November 2012 saw Epstein ask Musk, “how many people will you be for the heli to island.” Musk responded, “Probably just Talulah and me. What day/night will be the wildest party on your island?” referring to his then-wife Talulah Riley. When Epstein offered use of his helicopter, Musk said he wanted to “hit the party scene in St Barts” and “let loose,” adding that “a peaceful island experience is the opposite of what I’m looking for.”
Musk has previously denied any ties to Epstein, telling Vanity Fair in 2019 that Epstein was “obviously a creep” and that he had declined invitations to visit the island. The emails appear to contradict that denial, showing Musk actively planning visits. Neither trip ultimately took place due to logistical issues.
The documents also include an email from Epstein’s assistant arranging a lunch meeting at SpaceX in 2013, though it is unclear if it occurred. Another exchange shows Epstein congratulating Musk after a SpaceX rocket launch in March 2013. The emails are part of a tranche of 3 million documents released by the Justice Department on Friday.
