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Emails Reveal Ovitz Praised Epstein and Was Invited to His Island
Michael Ovitz, the co-founder of CAA, had cordial correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein despite denying close ties.
Published on Feb. 5, 2026
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Newly released files show that Michael Ovitz, the co-founder of the powerful talent agency CAA, praised Jeffrey Epstein's "outstanding multiple talents" in emails and was invited to Epstein's private Caribbean island in 2012. Ovitz's spokesperson denied the two were more than casually acquainted, but the documents reveal ongoing communication between the two men in the early and mid-2010s.
Why it matters
Ovitz's ties to Epstein, even if limited, are notable given Epstein's history of sexual abuse and trafficking. As a prominent figure in Hollywood and Silicon Valley, Ovitz's association with Epstein raises questions about the circles of influence and power that Epstein was able to cultivate.
The details
The files show that in 2012, Epstein invited Ovitz to visit his private island in the Caribbean, though Ovitz declined. In 2013, Ovitz emailed Epstein praising his "outstanding multiple talents," to which Epstein replied "great to see you smiling again." Ovitz also had dinner with former Barclays CEO Jes Staley, who was later scrutinized for his ties to Epstein. A real estate magnate who co-owned a marina with Epstein also sought an introduction to Ovitz in 2014.
- In 2010, Ovitz emailed Epstein after a dinner with former Barclays CEO Jes Staley.
- In February 2012, Epstein planned to see Ovitz at an undisclosed location.
- In April 2012, Ovitz emailed Epstein that he would drop by the financier's Manhattan home for a drink.
- In December 2012, Epstein invited Ovitz to his private island in the Caribbean, which Ovitz declined.
- In January 2013, Ovitz wrote to Epstein that he and a former Microsoft executive had been "raving about you and your outstanding multiple talents."
The players
Michael Ovitz
The co-founder of the powerful talent agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and a prolific tech investor.
Jeffrey Epstein
The disgraced financier who was convicted of sex crimes and died by suicide in 2019.
Jes Staley
The former CEO of Barclays who came under scrutiny for his ties to Epstein.
Andrew Farkas
A real estate magnate who co-owned a marina with Epstein in St. Thomas.
Peggy Siegal
Epstein's publicist.
What they’re saying
“Had dinner with Jes last night and your ears should still be burning. Great idea.”
— Michael Ovitz (Email to Jeffrey Epstein)
“you and your outstanding multiple talents.”
— Michael Ovitz (Email to Jeffrey Epstein)
“great to see you smiling again.”
— Jeffrey Epstein (Email to Michael Ovitz)
What’s next
The Justice Department's investigation into Epstein's ties is ongoing, and it remains to be seen if Ovitz will face any further scrutiny over his relationship with the disgraced financier.
The takeaway
Ovitz's cordial correspondence with Epstein, even after the latter's 2008 conviction, highlights how some prominent figures maintained ties with Epstein despite his history of sexual abuse. This case underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency around the networks of power and influence that allowed Epstein's crimes to continue unchecked for so long.
