The release of the Epstein files has ignited global controversy, leading to at least nine resignations and investigations into high-profile figures, including former UK ambassador to Washington Peter Mandelson and Prince Andrew. A Guardian analysis of over a million emails reveals the financier's deep and longstanding ties with a network of wealthy and powerful individuals.
The data analysis identified over 150,000 unique emails between Epstein and a select group of elites, including Steve Bannon, Donald Trump's former chief strategist. Between Bannon and Epstein, almost 1,500 emails were exchanged, mostly in 2018, covering politics and film. In one exchange, Bannon referred to Nazi filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl as his hero. Epstein also offered strategic advice on Bannon's rightwing foundation plans.
Emirati billionaire Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem had a prolific correspondence with Epstein, with close to 4,200 direct emails from 2005 to 2019. The emails included shared travel plans, business ideas, and occasional sexual references. In one message, Bin Sulayem complained about the appearance of women sent to him.
Epstein also acted as an informal adviser, introducing Bannon to figures such as Kenneth Starr and Noam Chomsky. The Guardian's series visualises the online relationships of seven high-profile individuals, including Woody Allen, former Barclays head Jes Staley, and economist Larry Summers. Appearing in the files does not constitute evidence of wrongdoing.
