The U.S. Department of Justice recently released millions of documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein following the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, aiming to increase public transparency around the long-running investigation. The files include emails, messages, photos, and other records collected over years, and many well-known public figures appear in the documents. However, officials stress that a person’s name appearing in the records does not mean they were involved in wrongdoing, as many individuals were mentioned through indirect contacts or routine communication. Among the names drawing attention again is Prince Andrew, who previously denied allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, later settling her civil lawsuit in 2022. Public scrutiny intensified after her memoir and subsequent developments, leading to Andrew losing royal titles and stepping back from public roles. The files also include references to communications and invitations involving members of his family, though the context of many mentions remains disputed.
Other royals and public figures also appear in the documents, including Sarah Ferguson, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway, and even references to Princess Diana and Queen Camilla. Ferguson has previously stated she cut ties with Epstein after learning more about the allegations, while Princess Mette-Marit publicly expressed regret for past contact, calling it poor judgment. Mentions of Princess Diana and Queen Camilla appear to stem from indirect references rather than evidence of personal involvement. The release has renewed public debate, but experts caution that the documents largely reflect contacts, social circles, and communications rather than confirmed criminal actions. As analysis continues, the files highlight the complexity of Epstein’s network and the importance of distinguishing documented contact from proven misconduct.