The Justice Department’s latest release of more than three million records tied to Jeffrey Epstein has ignited a new firestorm — and the fallout is rippling across Hollywood, the music industry, and even royal circles.
On Jan. 30, the DOJ made public a sweeping trove of emails, records, and documents connected to the Epstein investigation. Inclusion in the files does not necessarily imply wrongdoing. But that hasn’t stopped the reputational shock waves from spreading fast.
One of the most immediate impacts hit entertainment power broker Tommy Mottola. The former Sony Music Entertainment CEO was referenced in emails showing friendly exchanges with Epstein. In a 2012 message, Epstein’s assistant wrote, “Did Tommy Mottola come over early today? just wondering.” A year later, she followed up with, “Please call Tommy Mottola.” Records also show Mottola sent Epstein a “huge box of Bridgewater Chocolates” in 2011 and a gift basket in 2017.
Though Mottola has not been accused of wrongdoing, reports indicate his planned pasta sauce collaboration with Jimmy Fallon has been paused. “Nobody wants to be within 50 feet of anyone in the Epstein files,” an insider told Page Six Hollywood.
Casey Wasserman is also feeling the pressure. The powerful talent agent, whose firm represents major pop stars, confirmed plans to sell his agency after documents revealed flirtatious 2003 email exchanges with Ghislaine Maxwell. Wasserman has not been accused of wrongdoing. However, clients, including pop star Chappell Roan and retired soccer legend Abby Wambach, have reportedly cut ties following the revelations.
Senior executive Barry Diller’s name also surfaced in a 2003 email from Maxwell referencing a proposed visit to Epstein’s island. Diller has denied any improper connection, telling Page Six Hollywood he visited to see the architecture, not the people.
Director Brett Ratner addressed a resurfaced photo showing him seated near Epstein at an event two decades ago. Ratner said he did not have a personal relationship with Epstein and described the image as taken at a public gathering with his then-fiancée.
The document release also swept up numerous high-profile names through emails and press clippings included in the files. Meghan Markle, Alyssa Milano, Rosie O’Donnell, and Princess Diana were mentioned in news articles circulated in updates. Marilyn Monroe’s name appeared in emails regarding artwork Epstein wanted displayed.
Attorney General Pam Bondi later confirmed that “all” Epstein files have been released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, listing more than 300 high-profile individuals whose names appeared at least once. The list includes Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Bill Cosby, Kurt Cobain, Prince Harry, and others. The DOJ emphasized that names appear in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from direct email contact to mentions in unrelated press materials.
Photos previously released also show Mick Jagger seated between Epstein and Bill Clinton, and separate images include Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. Inclusion in the files does not implicate any individual in criminal activity.
Still, in an industry built on image, even a passing mention can carry consequences. The Epstein file release has reopened old wounds — and in Hollywood, perception often moves faster than proof.
