Russell Simmons Addresses Epstein Files Speculation

Speculation has been swirling around why Russell Simmons’s name appeared in the recently unsealed Jeffrey Epstein files. The Def Jam co-founder recently sat down for an interview on “Podcast and Chill” to set the record straight, denying any significant connection to the convicted sex offender.

A Bible and a Foundation: The Explanations

Simmons explained that his name surfaced in the files due to two seemingly unrelated incidents. The first involved a Ugandan model who apparently intended to give him her Bible. “My name is in the Epstein Files because a Ugandan model… wanted to give me her bible,” Simmons stated during the podcast. He expressed bewilderment as to how this interaction ended up in the documents.

The second mention, he explained, involved author Deepak Chopra. Simmons recalled Chopra asking Epstein if he wanted to attend an event honoring Simmons’s art foundation. “Deepak Chopra asked Jeffrey Epstein did he want to go to my house when Deepak was being honored for my art foundation,” Simmons said, emphasizing that this was the extent of the connection.

Denying Personal Connections

Simmons adamantly stated that he doesn’t recall ever meeting Epstein personally. He acknowledged being in many social circles but joked that “SpongeBob is in the Epstein files more than me” due to the sheer volume of names mentioned. This statement highlights his view that his own references are minor in the grand scheme of the files.

These comments come at a time when Simmons continues to face scrutiny over multiple sexual assault allegations that emerged during the #MeToo movement. He has consistently denied all accusations of non-consensual sex.