Princess Sofia of Sweden Addresses Past Encounters with Epstein

The Swedish royal says she met the late financier at a few social events in her 20s, expressing gratitude she had no further involvement.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Princess Sofia of Sweden has publicly addressed her past connection to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating she met him at a few social events in her 20s but has had no further involvement with him since then. The 41-year-old royal expressed gratitude that her ties to Epstein were limited, saying her thoughts go out to his victims and that she hopes there is justice. Sofia's decision to speak out comes after the Department of Justice recently released over 3 million records related to Epstein's case.

Why it matters

Princess Sofia's public statement about her limited encounters with Epstein is significant, as it puts accountability and public trust at the forefront. As a senior member of the Swedish royal family, her transparency in addressing this issue head-on is seen as a bold move, especially compared to other royals with closer ties to Epstein who have remained silent. Sofia's case also underscores how Epstein's expansive social circle reached even young women who were not intimate associates or maintaining contact with him after his conviction.

The details

According to reports, Princess Sofia met Epstein through her mentor, Swedish businesswoman Barbro Ehnbom, in 2005 when Sofia was an aspiring actress and model trying to establish herself in New York. Emails suggest Epstein invited Sofia to visit him on his private island in the Caribbean, but she did not accept the invitation. The Swedish Royal Court has confirmed that Sofia was introduced to Epstein on a few occasions around 2005, but stated that these meetings took place in social settings such as at a restaurant and a movie premiere, and that Sofia has had no contact with him for the past 20 years.

  • In 2005, Princess Sofia met Jeffrey Epstein through her mentor, Barbro Ehnbom.
  • Around 2005, Sofia was introduced to Epstein on a few occasions in social settings.

The players

Princess Sofia of Sweden

A 41-year-old member of the Swedish royal family who has publicly addressed her limited past encounters with Jeffrey Epstein when she was in her 20s.

Jeffrey Epstein

A late American financier and convicted sex offender who was accused of sex trafficking minors.

Barbro Ehnbom

A Swedish businesswoman who introduced Princess Sofia to Jeffrey Epstein in 2005.

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What they’re saying

“Now that I have read about the horrific crimes he subjected young women to, I'm so grateful that I've had nothing to do with him since those few occasions in my 20s.”

— Princess Sofia of Sweden (TV4 via English translation)

“My thoughts go out to all the victims, and I hope there is justice in this.”

— Princess Sofia of Sweden (TV4 via English translation)

The takeaway

Princess Sofia's decision to directly address her limited past encounters with Jeffrey Epstein demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability, even as a senior royal. Her statement provides clarity and prevents further speculation, while also expressing empathy for Epstein's victims. This approach is characteristic of the Scandinavian monarchies and may help reinforce positive perceptions of Sofia within the Swedish public.