CBS News is expected to end its professional relationship with contributor Peter Attia following the release of newly disclosed emails showing past communications between Attia and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to a report from The Wrap. The emails were part of a large document release made public Friday by the U.S. Department of Justice.
According to the report, Attia’s name appeared more than 1,700 times among approximately three million emails connected to Epstein. Some of the correspondence reportedly reflected a casual tone, including jokes and remarks about Epstein’s lifestyle. If confirmed, CBS News’ decision would come amid broader internal changes at the network.
Attia addressed the controversy Monday in a detailed statement posted on X. He acknowledged meeting Epstein several times between 2014 and 2019 at Epstein’s New York residence but denied any involvement in or knowledge of criminal activity. Attia said he was never on Epstein’s private plane, never visited his private island, and was not present at any illicit gatherings.
He stated that his interactions with Epstein were limited to discussions involving scientific research, philanthropy, and professional introductions. Attia also expressed regret over the tone of some emails that are now public, describing them as inappropriate and embarrassing. “I accept responsibility for my words and the consequences that come with them,” he wrote.
One email exchange from 2015 has drawn particular attention. Attia explained that a message referencing a “fresh shipment” related to prescription medication he had received, and he acknowledged responding poorly to Epstein’s reply. Attia said he was ashamed of the exchange and would not attempt to justify it.
Attia said he first encountered Epstein through academic and philanthropic networks, where Epstein was known for funding scientific research. He stated that his perception of Epstein changed significantly after media investigations in 2018 detailed the scope of Epstein’s criminal conduct. Attia said he ultimately cut ties and now recognizes that any continued association was a mistake.
In recent days, Attia has also appeared to distance himself from other professional ventures, including being removed from the website of a food company in which he had invested. Attia is a physician known for his work in preventive medicine and longevity research, focusing on strategies to extend years lived in good health rather than treating disease after onset.