Sir Richard Branson Emails in Epstein Files Reveal 2013 'Bring Your Harem' Invite

In a striking disclosure from the latest Jeffrey Epstein files, Sir Richard Branson appears to extend an unusual and controversial invitation to the disgraced financier.

As reported by Radar, the newly released documents from the United States Department of Justice reveal a September 2013 email exchange in which the Virgin Group founder writes to Epstein that he would "love to see you ... as long as you bring your harem," a remark that has sparked fresh scrutiny of their past association.

The correspondence also shows Branson offering Epstein detailed advice on how to address his troubled public image after a previous conviction, as the two communicated following Epstein's visit to Branson's private Necker Island.

Warm Words and an Unusual Invitation

An AOL report revealed that the 2013 exchange was prompted by Epstein's outreach after a meeting the day before. In his reply, Branson wrote that it was "really nice seeing you" and added provocatively, "Any time you're in the area would love to see you. As long as you bring your harem!"

The same Radar reports indicate that Epstein later used the term "harem" himself to describe three adult women in his entourage during that visit.

The wording has drawn attention because of its suggestive nature and the broader context of Epstein's conviction for soliciting a minor. While Branson's team says he would not have used the phrase had he known the full facts of Epstein's conduct, the remark remains a focal point of criticism.

Public Relations Advice in the Emails

After the initial pleasantries the AOL report shared that the email thread takes a more serious turn. Epstein had sought Branson's thoughts on handling sensitive public relations issues relating to his past.

In his response, Branson sketched out a hypothetical message that Epstein might use to address his conviction publicly, suggesting that an endorsement from a high-profile figure could soften his image. Branson wrote:

'I think if Bill Gates was willing to say that you've been a brilliant advisor to him, that you slipped up many years ago by sleeping with a 17 ½-year-old woman and were punished for it, that you've more than learnt your lesson and have done nothing that's against the law since and, yes, as a single man you seem to have a penchant for women. But there's nothing wrong with that.'

The guidance underscores how the exchange shifted from social niceties to strategic counsel, blending personal encouragement with image management advice.

Earlier Correspondence and Island Visits

The September email was not the only communication between the two men that year. Earlier messages from April 2013 discussed plans for Epstein to visit Necker Island, a luxury retreat owned by Branson.

According to accounts from the files and presented by a Sky News article, Epstein's assistant even asked about bringing an associate of Bill Gates, Boris Nikolic, and referenced additional women as part of his entourage in those exchanges.

Branson's team has confirmed that the meetings in April and September were brief and arranged by an unnamed American entrepreneur. It's understood that Epstein arrived at the second meeting by helicopter, accompanied by three adult women who spent time socialising on the island.

Branson's Response and Distance from Epstein

In response to the resurfaced emails, a spokesperson for Virgin Group sought to contextualise Branson's interactions with Epstein.

They stated that contact between Branson and Epstein occurred on only a few occasions more than a decade ago and was limited to group or business settings such as charity events.

The spokesperson explained that when Epstein offered a charity donation to Virgin Unite, the organisation conducted due diligence that uncovered serious allegations, leading them to decline the donation and cease further contact.

They added that had Branson and his late wife Joan had the full picture at the time, they would not have engaged with Epstein.

Branson's team emphasised that he believes Epstein's actions were "abhorrent" and supports justice for his many victims.

Public Reaction and Wider File Release

The appearance of these emails in the broader Epstein file release has reignited interest in the networks and associations of high-profile figures once linked to Epstein.

The Department of Justice's disclosure, under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, encompasses millions of documents, photographs and emails that illuminate the late financier's connections.

Branson's email exchange with Epstein has become a focal point for commentators assessing the nature of their relationship and the language used, particularly in light of the broader revelations.

While there is no suggestion of criminal wrongdoing by Branson, the emails raise questions about how influential individuals engaged with Epstein and navigated the reputational fallout of his convictions.

As further documents from the Epstein files continue to surface, more details about these interactions are expected to emerge, keeping the spotlight on long-standing debates over accountability and association among the elite.