Fox News' The Five Slammed for 'Vile' Rabbi Sex Joke Amid Epstein Uproar

Fox News panel show The Five has drawn criticism after a joke referencing a rabbi and sex was made during a segment discussing convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The comments aired this week on the US network, prompting backlash online as viewers described the remark as inappropriate amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding the late financier's case.

The controversy emerged during a discussion about renewed public interest in Epstein's associates and unresolved questions linked to his 2019 death in federal custody.

Clips of the exchange circulated widely on social media platforms, with critics accusing the panel of trivialising serious issues connected to sexual abuse and religious communities.

What Was Said on Air

According to reports and circulating video excerpts, a co-host on The Five referred to Epstein as a 'sex rabbi' while discussing Epstein's past connections and allegations involving powerful figures.

The comment, delivered in a light-hearted tone during the panel's conversation, was met with laughter from some on the set. However, viewers online characterised the remark as 'vile' and insensitive, with some users saying the remark echoed harmful stereotypes.

Fox News has not issued a formal public statement addressing the criticism at the time of publication. The network regularly features panel-based debate formats in which hosts express opinion and commentary on current affairs.

The Five is one of Fox News' highest-rated programmes, known for its mix of political discussion and cultural commentary.

Context: Epstein's Ongoing Public Scrutiny

The renewed attention comes amid continued interest in documents and investigations related to Jeffrey Epstein's network of associates. Epstein was arrested in July 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. Prosecutors alleged he operated a scheme involving underage girls in New York and Florida.

Following his death in August 2019 at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan, multiple investigations examined jail procedures and security failures. The US Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General later reported significant lapses in supervision and staffing on the night he died.

Epstein's case has remained politically and culturally charged, with periodic calls from public figures and commentators for further disclosure of records linked to individuals who had social or professional ties to him.

The issue resurfaced in recent weeks as media outlets revisited aspects of the case, prompting discussion across US broadcast networks.

Reaction and Broader Media Debate

Online reaction to the segment was swift. Social media users criticised the use of humour in relation to sexual abuse allegations and religious references. Some advocacy groups have previously urged broadcasters to exercise caution when addressing sensitive topics connected to faith communities and sexual misconduct.

Fox News has not indicated whether any internal review of the segment will take place. The programme continued airing subsequent episodes without reference to the controversy.

The episode highlights ongoing tensions in US broadcast media between opinion-driven discussion and public expectations around tone, particularly when discussing cases involving sexual exploitation and criminal conduct.

As of publication, no regulatory complaint or formal sanction had been announced in connection with the segment.