Fox News Panelists Face Intense Criticism for Downplaying Jeffrey Epstein Crimes
Panelists on Fox News' popular program "The Five" have come under severe scrutiny and widespread condemnation after making comments that critics argue dismiss and trivialize the serious crimes of the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The segment, which aired recently, has ignited a firestorm on social media platforms, with users labeling the remarks as "sick," "tasteless," and "f**king disgusting."
Controversial Statements During the Broadcast
During the discussion, co-host Jesse Watters made several contentious assertions. He stated, "If you read the Epstein files, Epstein got his money from two Jewish billionaires, Les Wexner and Leon Black — and a little bit of money from the Jewish banking dynasty, the Rothschilds in Europe." Watters further suggested that Epstein, who was a longtime associate of former President Donald Trump, was "mostly just a fixer" — "a guy who advises, he helps people with their problems." He added, "Sometimes those problems are 'you need a girl,' and if you need it, he's got it."
Co-host Greg Gutfeld compounded the controversy by referring to Epstein as "a sex rabbi," a term that has been met with particular outrage. Additionally, Watters floated the idea of Epstein as a performer at next year's Super Bowl halftime show, a suggestion that many found deeply inappropriate given the gravity of Epstein's convictions for sex trafficking and abuse.
Social Media Erupts in Outrage
The backlash on social media was swift and intense. One user, Eugene, posted a clip with the caption, "Fox News is making jokes, calling Epstein a sex Rabbi. This seems wrong for a whole lot of reasons. Do you think this is funny?" Another user, Fifty Shades of Whey, shared a video highlighting how Fox News hosts are "downplaying Epstein's crimes and cracking jokes."
Numerous other reactions poured in, expressing disgust and calling for accountability. Sabrina commented, "the videos i have seen and the documents i have read about him.... NO.. this isn't funny. its like justifying his actions." DemocracyHunter described the comments as "ghoulish," while Brightlord questioned, "How are these people still allowed to keep their jobs?"
Further condemnation included tweets such as:
- "So sick & tasteless. Cancel them all ?" from Tab?
- "Fvcking disgusting!???" from GA Avocado Junkie
- "Beyond disgraceful" from Ellen
- "Shameful" from B.J. Major
- "They are horrific" from M McGuire
- "Garbage ass humans" from Blaze McStevens
Broader Implications for Media Ethics
This incident raises significant questions about media responsibility and ethical journalism. Critics argue that downplaying or joking about serious criminal activities, especially those involving sexual abuse, is not only offensive but also potentially harmful to survivors and public discourse. The episode has sparked a broader conversation about the role of news networks in shaping perceptions of high-profile cases and the need for sensitivity when discussing victims of crime.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Fox News will issue a response or take any disciplinary action against the hosts involved. The public outcry underscores a growing demand for accountability in media, particularly when it comes to handling sensitive topics with the gravity they deserve.
