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Epstein explored EMI investment linked to misogynistic remarks
Newly unsealed emails from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) show Jeffrey Epstein considered buying music giant EMI, with associates using degrading terms to describe women during discussions.
Deal discussions and coded language
In February 2010, Epstein's associate David Stern forwarded a news article about EMI's financial struggles, describing the music industry as "related to P"-a term Epstein reportedly used to refer to women. Stern, a London-based businessman with ties to Prince Andrew, frequently used the phrase in correspondence, including birthday wishes like "lots of P" and ratings such as "P factor" for events, giving Ibiza a 9/10 and Sarah Ferguson's 50th birthday party a 0.2/10.
Epstein responded with interest, asking, "Do we need help-mandelson?"-a reference to then-UK Business Secretary Lord Mandelson.
Government and industry connections
Stern advised Epstein to wait before involving Mandelson, but Epstein later emailed the minister directly, requesting contact details for an unnamed "ben" regarding EMI. Mandelson replied, "Gave to [redacted]. Email is [redacted]. Talk re EMI??" The identity of "ben" remains unclear.
Epstein proposed bringing in former Sony Music CEO Tommy Mottola to lead the EMI deal, writing, "my friend is tommy mottola former head of sony I'd like him to be brought in to fix it." Mottola has not commented on the exchange.
Later attempts and eventual sale
Though Epstein's 2010 bid failed, discussions resurfaced in 2011. Kevin Law, a Connecticut businessman linked to Epstein, suggested involving Prince Andrew in a syndicate with private equity firm KKR. Law denied any deal with Epstein or the prince, while KKR declined to comment.
Stern remained enthusiastic, writing that EMI could be "a great asset to have for P!" if structured for Chinese investors. However, Citigroup took control of EMI in 2011, splitting and selling it to Universal and a Sony-led consortium in 2012.
Broader pattern of business interests
The DOJ files also reveal Epstein's interest in model agencies and fashion businesses, which similarly did not materialize. French prosecutors previously alleged Epstein used fashion industry contacts, including Jean-Luc Brunel, to exploit young women.
Neither Stern, Mandelson, nor Prince Andrew responded to requests for comment.
