‘Do you think you’re the devil himself?’ Epstein questioned in newly released interview

WEB DESK: Newly released footage of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein has reignited scrutiny of his past crimes, showing him downplaying his actions and describing himself as the “lowest level” of sexual offender.

The nearly two-hour interview, part of a massive release of US Department of Justice documents, shows Epstein rejecting characterisations of him as a major predator despite his 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from an underage girl and pending federal sex trafficking charges at the time of his death in 2019.

In the footage, Epstein is asked by an interviewer, believed to be Steve Bannon, former adviser to President Donald Trump, whether he considers himself “the devil.” Epstein smiles, brushes off the label, and insists he does not deserve such a characterisation, later rejecting classification as a “class three sexual predator,” the highest threat designation under US law, and instead calling himself “the lowest.” He does, however, acknowledge that he was a criminal, though he minimizes the severity of his conviction.

Money, Influence, and Defense of Legacy

The interview also explores Epstein’s wealth and global connections. When questioned about whether his money was “dirty,” Epstein insisted it was earned legally, though he acknowledged the complexity of ethics. He highlighted his charitable contributions toward polio eradication in Pakistan and India, an attempt critics say was intended to improve his public image rather than reflect genuine accountability.

Documents released alongside the footage reveal Epstein maintained regular contact with Bannon and offered to help promote conservative political ideas in Europe. The records, part of millions of pages, photos, and videos made public since January 2025, also highlight Epstein’s ties to influential figures, including Bill Gates, Woody Allen, Donald Trump, and former President Bill Clinton.

Renewed Scrutiny on Epstein’s Network

The release has renewed public scrutiny of Epstein’s conduct, revealing how he viewed his actions in stark contrast to the gravity of his crimes. It also raises questions about the timing and purpose of the interview, and why it remained unpublished until now. As more documents emerge, the footage underscores Epstein’s extensive political, business, and social network while highlighting ongoing concerns about the facilitation and shielding of his activities by powerful connections.