Newly Released Epstein Photos Reveal Steve Bannon’s Close Ties to the Disgraced Financier
Incriminating new photos from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate capture Steve Bannon grinning alongside the infamous sex trafficker in intimate settings, including a mirror selfie and office chats. Yet Bannon brazenly dismisses them as “fake as a three-dollar bill,” only for former prosecutor Dave Aronberg to unleash a scorching MSNBC rebuttal, branding it the desperate denial of a man entangled in the predator’s web. How deep do these shadowy ties really go?
The latest revelations from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate have thrust former Trump strategist Steve Bannon back into the spotlight, with newly released photographs showing him in close, casual proximity to the convicted sex offender. Released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee in December 2025, these images—from a trove of over 95,000 photos obtained via subpoena—depict Bannon and Epstein in undeniably personal moments: a mirror selfie taken by Epstein himself, with both men half-smiling at their reflections, and another of Bannon seated across a desk from Epstein during what appears to be an intimate conversation.
These visuals build on prior disclosures, including emails showing frequent communication between the two in 2018 and 2019. Reports indicate Bannon filmed around 15 hours of footage with Epstein, ostensibly for a documentary project aimed at rehabilitating the financier’s image ahead of his legal troubles. Texts reveal Epstein offering media advice to Bannon and discussing political strategies, while Bannon reportedly helped Epstein navigate publicity crises.
Bannon’s response to the photos has been swift and vehement, calling them “fake as a three-dollar bill” in public statements, suggesting digital manipulation or political motivation behind their release. However, metadata and provenance from Epstein’s own devices, as confirmed by committee sources, support their authenticity. No independent forensic analysis has substantiated claims of fakery, and major outlets like NBC, BBC, and Vanity Fair have published the images without questioning their legitimacy.
The controversy escalated during a heated MSNBC segment where former Palm Beach State Attorney Dave Aronberg, a frequent legal commentator, dismantled Bannon’s denial. Aronberg described it as “the desperate denial of a man entangled in the predator’s web,” pointing to the pattern of high-profile figures distancing themselves from Epstein only after his crimes became undeniable. Aronberg highlighted the office photo, noting a partially redacted framed image on Epstein’s desk that some speculate depicts a victim, adding a chilling layer to the setting.
Contextually, Bannon’s association with Epstein dates back to at least 2018, when the two collaborated on media projects amid Epstein’s mounting legal scrutiny. Epstein, already a registered sex offender from his 2008 plea deal, sought Bannon’s expertise in crafting a public redemption narrative. This included discussions of a potential “60 Minutes”-style interview and strategies to counter negative press. Bannon has acknowledged filming Epstein but framed it as investigative journalism, promising a future release of the material—though none has materialized as of early 2026.
Critics argue these ties raise questions about influence and access. Epstein’s network included powerful figures across politics, business, and entertainment, and Bannon’s involvement occurred while he was shaping far-right media narratives post-White House. No evidence in the releases suggests Bannon’s direct participation in Epstein’s crimes, and he has denied any knowledge of illicit activities.
Still, the photos intensify scrutiny. Victims’ advocates praise the transparency push, arguing it honors survivors by exposing enablers. The releases, separate from DOJ-held files, aim to pressure full disclosure under recent transparency laws.
Bannon’s dismissal aligns with a broader pattern among Epstein associates—initial denial followed by qualified admissions. Yet, with authentic images now public, the depth of these “shadowy ties” appears more substantial than mere acquaintance. As more documents emerge, the public awaits whether Bannon will address the visuals beyond blanket rejection or release his own Epstein footage for context.
Ultimately, these photos serve as a stark reminder of Epstein’s reach into elite circles. While proving nothing criminal, they underscore the discomforting proximity some maintained with a known predator, fueling ongoing demands for accountability.
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