Barry Josephson, executive producer of the television series Bones, has publicly addressed his past correspondence with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Newly uncovered emails reveal that Josephson maintained contact and financial ties with Epstein years after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for sex trafficking offenses.
In a statement shared with Variety, Josephson acknowledged the inappropriate nature of some of his email exchanges. He admitted that the language used was “crude and juvenile” and expressed regret, saying, “I’m ashamed.” Despite attending social events with Epstein and allowing him to visit his production sets twice, Josephson denied involvement in any illegal activities or encounters with minors.
Josephson stated he never flew on Epstein’s private plane nor visited Epstein’s private island. He described being blinded by Epstein’s influential social circle, which included prominent figures across industries. “My biggest regret, bar none, is that I foolishly believed his denials of wrongdoing,” he commented, extending an apology to those harmed by Epstein.
Court records and emails newly released by the Justice Department highlight a sustained relationship between the two men well beyond Epstein’s initial conviction. Documents indicate Josephson borrowed over $330,000 from Epstein in 2011 and 2012 to cover personal expenses like tax bills. This financial dependence was accompanied by friendly messages in which Josephson expressed feeling “overwhelmed by your friendship.”
The emails further reveal the nature of conversations between Josephson and Epstein, including discussions about employing a “young, attractive” woman as Epstein’s assistant. Epstein, known for his extensive networking tactics, sought to leverage his connection with Josephson to obtain a foothold in Hollywood circles. He also attempted, without success, to have women within his acquaintance cast in roles on Bones.
Despite the troubling revelations, Josephson maintains he never witnessed Epstein in inappropriate situations involving minors. His statement implies a distinction between social association and complicity. Hollywood insiders and legal analysts observe the complexity of distinguishing personal ties from illicit collaboration, especially given Epstein’s notorious reputation.
The Justice Department’s document release dates back to January, with exchanges between Josephson and Epstein documented as late as 2018, one year prior to Epstein’s death in custody. This timeline has raised questions about the persistence of relationships between Epstein and influential figures long after his criminal convictions.
Key facts about Barry Josephson’s association with Jeffrey Epstein include:
- Josephson borrowed over $330,000 in personal loans from Epstein after his 2008 conviction.
- Epstein visited Josephson’s Bones sets on at least two occasions.
- The two men exchanged emails discussing potential staff hires and social events.
- Josephson never traveled on Epstein’s private jet or visited his private island.
- Communications extended into 2018, showing contact persisted for years.
While Josephson’s public apology acknowledges the problematic nature of his past communications, questions remain about the depth of Epstein’s influence in Hollywood. Investigations into Epstein’s network continue to uncover complex connections involving multiple industries.
Josephson’s statement reflects an attempt at accountability amidst growing scrutiny of Epstein’s contacts. The entertainment industry faces increasing pressure to address any complicity or negligence associated with Epstein’s extensive social reach. Meanwhile, further document releases and legal proceedings may shed light on additional associations and activities.
As new information emerges, public and professional responses to Josephson’s role in this scandal will remain a focal point for media and legal observers alike. The evolving narrative underscores the pervasive impact of Epstein’s crimes across diverse sectors, emphasizing the need for transparency and rigorous investigation.
Read more at: deadline.com
