Los Angeles: Supermodel Gigi Hadid has spoken out for the first time after her name, along with that of her sister Bella Hadid, surfaced in documents linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The mention comes from a 2015 email exchange involving Epstein, which was recently made public by the U.S. Department of Justice. In the email, an unidentified individual questioned how Gigi and Bella rose to fame and financial success in modeling. Epstein responded vaguely, dismissing suggestions that their success was influenced by external payments and instead attributing it to their professionalism.
Reacting to the development, Gigi described the situation as deeply unsettling. She clarified that she had never met Epstein and had no connection with him.
“Horrible to read someone you’ve never met speak about you that way, especially in this context,” she said, explaining why she had initially chosen not to comment publicly.
The issue gained traction after a social media user questioned her silence, prompting Gigi to respond. She said she avoided speaking earlier because she did not want to divert attention from the real victims who have accused Epstein of serious crimes over the years.
“To be named in those files… is disturbing,” she stated, adding firmly that she has “never had any affiliation with that disgusting human being.”
Gigi also addressed discussions around her background, acknowledging that she grew up with privilege but emphasised the values instilled by her parents, Mohamed Hadid and Yolanda Hadid. She noted that they taught her discipline and the importance of hard work.
She further highlighted that since signing with a modeling agency in 2012, she has built her career through consistent effort and dedication.
The resurfacing of Epstein-related documents continues to draw global attention, even years after his 2019 arrest on sex trafficking charges and subsequent death while in custody.
With inputs from IANS