What are the Epstein files? FBI director Kash Patel addresses island video footage on Joe Rogan podcast

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FBI Director drops bombshell statement about Epstein pedophile island videos (Image via Getty)

The “Epstein files” refer to a large collection of documents, videos, and evidence linked to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. These materials include court records, photos, flight logs, and surveillance footage gathered by law enforcement over the years. Many files remained sealed or hidden from the public until developments in 2024 and 2025.

In early 2025, pressure from the public and political leaders pushed the U.S. government to release more Epstein-related materials. Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel are central figures in this process. Their efforts have led to the release of some documents, while many others are still under review.

During his appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience (Episode #2334), FBI Director Kash Patel avoided giving a direct answer about the existence of surveillance videos from Jeffrey Epstein’s private island. When host Joe Rogan asked if the FBI had footage from Epstein’s properties, Patel redirected the discussion toward the jail cell footage and the broader discussion of whether Epstein committed suicide or not.

“And you're going to get the video of the cell. And you're going to see for yourself. And we will never be able to convince everyone.” Patel said on the podcast.

What is inside the Epstein files?

According to an ABC News report, the Epstein files contain several types of information. These include records from Epstein’s past legal cases in Florida and New York. There are also flight logs listing people who traveled on Epstein’s private jets, sometimes referred to as the “Lolita Express.”

Other files include items taken from his homes and properties. These are computers, hard drives, CDs, memory sticks, and personal items such as photo albums. The files also include Epstein’s “black book,” which lists many names and contact details of known figures.

Some of the most important documents are victim statements and witness testimonies. These give details about how Epstein recruited underage girls and what happened to them. The identities of over 250 victims remain protected, with many names redacted for privacy reasons.

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Why are these Epstein files being released now?

Calls for transparency grew after new claims were made in public. In particular, a tweet by Elon Musk claimed that former President Donald Trump might be named in the Epstein files. While this has not been confirmed, it added fuel to demands for full disclosure.

According to a report published by BBC News, Attorney General Pam Bondi began the release of the first phase of Epstein files. These included court records and an "Evidence List" showing what was found in Epstein’s homes. Bondi accused the FBI of holding back more documents and demanded a report from Director Kash Patel within 14 days. She mentioned to the FBI Director,

"You will deliver to me a comprehensive report of your findings and proposed personnel action within 14 days."

The Department of Justice is now reviewing video recordings from Epstein’s properties. These tapes may include security footage from Little St. James, Epstein’s private island. The full contents of the remaining files are still not public, and pressure continues for more releases.

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What did the FBI Director say about the island videos?

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Director Kash Patel confirmed that the FBI has seen the full Epstein file. He said the agency has possession of surveillance footage from inside Epstein’s jail cell and from other locations. He also said some of this footage will be released soon.

He did not confirm or deny the presence of tapes from Little St. James, often referred to as Epstein’s “pedophile island.” He said,

"Not of what you want. The people out there have filled the void with, can't wait to see X, Y, or Z."

Pressed by Rogan about the potential contents of unreleased videos, Patel responded carefully:

"We've reviewed all the information and the American public is going to get as much as we can release."

He reiterated that the release of any footage must follow legal protocols and protect victim identities. When Rogan pushed further, asking whether such videos even exist, Patel replied,

"We're gonna give you everything we can and people have to remember we're not going to re-victimize women. We're not going to put that sh*t back out there."

These answers left open the possibility that island footage may be part of the Epstein files but not yet approved for public release.

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The Epstein files are a collection of court documents, videos, and digital records tied to Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking network. While some materials have already been released, many remain sealed. The government faces ongoing pressure to provide full access to the files.

Edited by Sangeeta Mathew