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Health Influencer Peter Attia Exits CBS News Contributor Role After Epstein Files Disclosure
Attia had been among a slate of new contributors announced by CBS News editor in chief Bari Weiss last month.
Feb. 23, 2026 at 7:12pm
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Peter Attia, a health influencer known for longevity medicine, is no longer a CBS News contributor following disclosures of his communications with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Attia had been announced as a new contributor for CBS News last month, but his emails with Epstein were part of the Justice Department's release of millions of files, leading to his departure from the network.
Why it matters
The disclosure of Attia's interactions with Epstein has raised questions about the vetting process for new media contributors, especially those with high-profile backgrounds. CBS News' decision to part ways with Attia also highlights the ongoing challenges media organizations face in navigating controversies involving their on-air talent.
The details
Attia acknowledged that some of his emails with Epstein were "embarrassing, tasteless, and indefensible." He said he got to know Epstein earlier in his career when he had "little exposure to prominent people" and the level of access was "novel" to him. Attia denied participating in or witnessing any criminal activity. However, the disclosure of his communications with Epstein led to CBS News' decision to sever ties with him as a contributor.
- On February 2, 2026, Attia posted on X (formerly Twitter) addressing the disclosure of his emails with Epstein.
- In January 2026, CBS News editor in chief Bari Weiss announced Attia as a new contributor for the network.
The players
Peter Attia
A health influencer known for longevity medicine who had been announced as a new CBS News contributor but is now leaving the network following the disclosure of his communications with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Bari Weiss
The editor in chief of CBS News who had announced Attia as a new contributor for the network last month as part of a new strategy for the news division.
Jeffrey Epstein
A convicted sex offender whose communications with Peter Attia were part of the Justice Department's release of millions of files, leading to Attia's departure from CBS News.
What they’re saying
“I apologize and regret putting myself in a position where emails, some of them embarrassing, tasteless, and indefensible, are now public, and that is on me. I accept that reality and the humiliation that comes with it.”
— Peter Attia
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing challenges media organizations face in vetting and maintaining relationships with high-profile contributors, especially when controversies arise around their past conduct or associations. It underscores the importance of thorough background checks and the need for media outlets to be vigilant in upholding their standards of ethics and integrity.
