Jeffrey Epstein Documentary: Bannon’s Last-Minute PR Plan Revealed

Jeffrey Epstein was planning a documentary to salvage his reputation on the very day of his arrest. The project was a collaboration with former Trump advisor Steve Bannon. Their goal was to counter the upcoming Netflix series about his life.

This effort is detailed in a trove of newly released emails. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the plan involved filming on Epstein’s private island. The emails show a frantic attempt to reshape public perception.

Inside the Aborted Media Makeover

The documentary plan accelerated as Netflix‘s “Filthy Rich” took shape. Epstein, Bannon, and publicist Peggy Siegal coordinated their response. They discussed who to interview for their project.

Bannon even scheduled a filming session for July 6, 2019. He suggested an 11 a.m. start time on Little St. James island. Epstein’s reply was brief and final: “All canceled.”

Minutes later, federal agents arrested Epstein. The planned documentary was permanently shelved. The emails reveal the abrupt end to their public relations campaign.

Wolff’s Role as Unofficial Advisor

Author Michael Wolff was also involved in Epstein’s media strategy. Emails show Wolff offering advice on how to handle Donald Trump. He coached Epstein on leveraging his relationship with the then-presidential candidate.

Wolff suggested letting Trump “hang himself” in media interviews. This would give Epstein “valuable PR and political currency.” The correspondence depicts a strategic, transactional relationship.

The newly released messages expand the known scope of Wolff’s involvement. He has denied acting as a formal advisor. He claims his conduct was merely a ruse for access.

The failed documentary reveals a desperate final attempt to control the narrative. This Jeffrey Epstein documentary plan collapsed with his arrest. The emails provide a stark look into the high-powered connections he maintained until the end.

Dropping this nugget your way

What was the goal of the Epstein documentary?

The documentary aimed to rehabilitate Jeffrey Epstein’s public image. It was a direct response to the Netflix series “Filthy Rich.” The plan involved interviewing high-profile figures from media and academia.

Why was the documentary canceled?

Epstein canceled the project minutes before his arrest. He was taken into federal custody on sex trafficking charges. The filming scheduled for that day never happened.

Who was involved in the project?

Steve Bannon was spearheading the production effort. Publicist Peggy Siegal was also involved in planning. Author Michael Wolff was consulted for his media expertise.

How did they plan to counter the Netflix series?

They sought to provide a more favorable narrative about Epstein’s life. Their documentary would feature sympathetic interviews. They specifically wanted to address his life “before it fell apart.”

Where were they planning to film?

Bannon asked to film on Little St. James island. Epstein immediately agreed to this request. This is the same location where abuse allegations are centered.