Gigi Hadid talks about her and sister Bella being named in Epstein Files

Supermodel Gigi Hadid has finally spoken out about her and her sister Bella Hadid's mention in the infamous Epstein files. The revelation comes from a 2015 email exchange between Jeffrey Epstein and a redacted individual, which was released by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and reviewed by people.com. In the email, an anonymous person asked Epstein how Gigi, now 30, and Bella, now 29, had "become models and make so much money." Epstein replied, "You know," to which the individual suggested that their father had "paid the agency." Epstein responded, "No," and later clarified, "Because they follow directions, it's that simple."

The release of these emails sparked public interest and led to social media reactions. One user commented under one of Gigi's Instagram carousels on March 29, stating that she "had to unfollow" the model because of her silence about being mentioned in the files. This comment prompted Gigi to finally address the issue. In a since-deleted reply to the comment on her Instagram carousel, Gigi explained why she didn't initially comment on her inclusion in the Epstein files. "Horrible to read someone you've never met speak about you that way. Especially in this context," she wrote, according to E! News and InStyle. "I didn't comment bc I don't want to take away from the stories of real victims of his; but your comment made me realize maybe it's not clear—and it's important to let you know."

Gigi went on to state her position unequivocally. "To be named in those files, I think I was 20-21 at the time he would have written that email — is disturbing," she said. "And I want to state unequivocally that I have never had any affiliation with that disgusting human being."

The Epstein files have been a subject of controversy and scrutiny since their release. They contain numerous references to individuals who were allegedly involved with or associated with Epstein, including high-profile figures. The files were obtained by British barrister Ghislaine Maxwell, who was Epstein's longtime associate and later convicted of sex trafficking and other crimes. The U.S. Department of Justice seized the files during a raid on Maxwell's home in July 2020.

Epstein's criminal activities were first brought to light in the late 1990s, but it wasn't until 2008 that he was charged with multiple counts of sex trafficking and prostitution of minors. He was eventually convicted in 2008 but received a sentence of 18 to 27 months in prison, widely seen as a lenient punishment given the nature of his crimes. Epstein's death by suicide in his jail cell in August 2019 followed his arrest in July of that year on federal conspiracy and sex trafficking charges.

The Epstein case has been a catalyst for numerous women to come forward and share their harrowing experiences of abuse and exploitation. Many of these victims have spoken out about the impact of Epstein's actions on their lives and the need for justice. The mention of Gigi and Bella Hadid in the Epstein files has added another layer to the ongoing discussion about the intersections of power, celebrity, and abuse.

Gigi's decision to address the issue publicly is a significant step in clarifying her stance and ensuring that her name is not mistakenly linked to Epstein's criminal activities. It also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the face of such allegations. As the Epstein files continue to be scrutinized, it remains to be seen how they will shape public perception and further the pursuit of justice for the victims of Epstein's crimes.