How Jeffrey Epstein used Woody Allen to expand his network

Le Monde’s Investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and Woody Allen

Le Monde’s review of hundreds of documents traces nine years of correspondence between Jeffrey Epstein and Woody Allen, from their first meeting in 2010 until Epstein’s death in 2019. The investigation presents Allen’s relationship with Epstein as an example of how Epstein cultivated powerful connections despite his conviction for sexual offenses involving minors.

Building a Respectable Image

After his release from probation in 2010, Epstein faced a damaged public image. The video argues that he sought to overcome it not only by trying to suppress damaging search results, but also by surrounding himself with prominent people who could make him seem respectable.

A December 2010 dinner at Epstein’s New York townhouse illustrates this tactic. Epstein and publicist Peggy Siegal used the presence of Prince Andrew and Allen to attract other guests. Allen later said that seeing respected people embrace Epstein made him seem like a substantial figure.

Epstein reinforced that impression through carefully staged displays of wealth and influence, including photographs of himself with prominent politicians and other public figures. He also tailored his attention to Allen’s interests by:

• Offering access to discussions with scientists and intellectuals.
• Presenting himself as a financial expert.
• Doing favors for Allen’s family, including helping Allen’s daughter explore Bard College and donating to his other daughter’s school.

Le Monde estimates that Allen received gifts and benefits worth at least tens of thousands of euros, including a bathrobe.

Using Allen’s Name to Make Connections

The investigation says Allen’s name became useful to Epstein as a way to approach others. In France, Epstein used their connection to seek contacts in business, culture, and science, and to arrange private screenings and visits.

The video describes a chain of introductions involving mathematicians Mikhail Gromov and Cédric Villani, through which Epstein tried to reach then-economy minister Bruno Le Maire. Villani said he did not pass on the invitation. Le Maire said his contact with Epstein went no further than a brief meeting in New York in 2013.

The Role of Social Proof

The video characterizes Epstein’s method as repeatedly using social proof: people saw him welcomed by well-known figures and inferred that he was trustworthy. It argues that he made himself useful to influential people, building a network that could also benefit his business interests.

The report says the documents it reviewed did not suggest that Allen was complicit in Epstein’s crimes. Allen has said he did not see Epstein with underage girls and has maintained that allegations of sexual assault against him are false.

Presenters and Contributors

The subtitles name the following presenters and contributors:

• Anand Giridharadas
• Peggy Siegal
• Woody Allen
• Talia Hayden, archival news reporter

Le Monde’s journalists are not named.