Joe Rogan Addresses Appearance in Epstein Files on Podcast
Popular podcast host Joe Rogan has publicly addressed references to his name in recently released Epstein-related documents, explaining that he declined any attempt to connect him with Jeffrey Epstein.
Rogan discussed the matter on a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, saying he never met Epstein and had no interest in doing so.
The comments come amid renewed attention to millions of pages of records released by the United States Department of Justice between 2025 and 2026 as part of expanded transparency efforts.
Background: How Rogan’s Name Appeared in the Files
According to the released documents, Rogan’s name appeared in a 2017 email exchange between Epstein and Canadian physicist Lawrence Krauss.
In the email, Epstein asked Krauss whether he could introduce him to Rogan after Krauss had appeared on Rogan’s podcast earlier that year. Krauss replied that he would reach out, but later informed Epstein that Rogan was not interested in meeting.
A follow-up message suggested that Rogan seemed hesitant about any potential contact.
Rogan’s Response on His Podcast
Addressing the issue directly, Rogan said his only connection to Epstein was refusing to meet him.
“I’m in the files for not going,” Rogan explained. “He was trying to meet with me, and I said no.”
Rogan added that he never seriously considered any interaction and described the idea as unappealing.
He made the remarks during an episode featuring actress Cheryl Hines, who is married to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr..
When asked whether he was relieved he never met Epstein, Rogan replied that he was.
Comments on Power and Influence
During the discussion, Rogan criticized what he described as a culture of social climbing around wealthy and powerful figures.
He suggested that some people are drawn to elite circles for status rather than principle.
“Some people get intoxicated by being around rich and powerful people,” he said.
Rogan emphasized that he had no interest in that environment and distanced himself from anyone seeking Epstein’s favor.
Reaction to FBI and Media Reporting
Rogan also reacted strongly to reporting by ABC News summarizing FBI conclusions about Epstein’s activities.
The report stated that the Federal Bureau of Investigation found extensive evidence that Epstein exploited underage girls, but insufficient proof that he operated a trafficking network for powerful individuals.
Rogan criticized that conclusion, calling it misleading and dismissive of the documented abuse.
He questioned how authorities could reach such findings given the scope of Epstein’s misconduct.
Findings in Justice Department Records
According to internal Justice Department memoranda:
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Investigators found no financial records linking other public figures to Epstein’s criminal activity
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Photographs seized from Epstein’s properties did not implicate additional individuals
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Payments in Epstein’s records were linked mainly to legitimate professional services
These documents were circulated internally in 2019 and later referenced in public reporting.
In early 2026, members of Congress were granted access to unredacted versions of the files to verify that no evidence had been improperly withheld.
Political Context
Rogan, who publicly supported Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign, has remained outspoken on political and institutional issues.
His comments on the Epstein files reflect broader public skepticism toward official conclusions and transparency efforts.
Current Status
At present:
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Rogan has not been accused of wrongdoing
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His name appears only in correspondence showing he declined contact
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No evidence links him to Epstein’s criminal activities
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Authorities have not identified him as a subject of investigation
Legal experts note that many names appear in the Epstein records simply due to emails, scheduling attempts, or indirect references, not because of criminal involvement.
Conclusion
Joe Rogan’s appearance in the Epstein files stems from a rejected attempt by Epstein to arrange a meeting through an intermediary.
On his podcast, Rogan made clear that he never met Epstein, never pursued a relationship, and had no interest in associating with him.
While the ongoing release of documents continues to generate public scrutiny, available records do not suggest any misconduct by Rogan. Instead, they reflect a brief, unsuccessful effort by Epstein to establish contact—one that Rogan says he firmly declined.
As lawmakers and journalists continue reviewing the files, officials maintain that only verified evidence—not speculation—should guide public judgment.