Stephen Hawking Found in Epstein Files: Bikini-Clad Photo, Science Event Attendance and New Details
A photograph showing Stephen Hawking reclining beside bikini-clad women has emerged in files tied to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, renewing scrutiny of a science symposium and related images. The disclosures matter because they put the late scientist's presence at Epstein-linked events into fresh public view while legal documents and family comment address the context and implications.
Stephen Hawking in the newly revealed photograph
The image shows the late scientist Stephen Hawking relaxing on a sun lounger beside women in bikinis, reclining in an undated picture with a cocktail placed in his hand. One of the two women is steadying the drink. It is understood the two women were his long-term UK carers, since he required round-the-clock care.
Location, timing and the science symposium
The photograph was included in documents released by the US Department of Justice as part of its investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The picture was taken in 2006 during a science symposium at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, St Thomas, in the US Virgin Islands, where Professor Hawking gave a speech on quantum cosmology. Young women joined the Epstein science event attended by Stephen Hawking, and he was among 21 scientists who visited St Thomas and Epstein's 75-acre private island, Little Saint James, for a science event.
Material tied to the Epstein VI Foundation describes guests meeting to discuss topics, relax on the beach and take a trip to the nearby private island retreat during gatherings intended to explore consensus, if any, on defining gravity.
Other images in the files and access accommodations
Additional photographs in the collection show Professor Hawking in a number of settings related to Epstein properties. One photograph released in 2015 showed him in his wheelchair at an outdoor dinner on Little Saint James with several other people. Another image depicts the cosmologist in a submarine touring the island's seabed. Epstein had reportedly modified the underwater vessel to allow Professor Hawking to get into it.
Documentary mentions, allegations raised and legal material
The Department of Justice documents mention the theoretical physicist hundreds of times, although simply being identified in the files does not indicate wrongdoing. Court documents from two years ago revealed that Epstein told his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell she could offer a financial reward to friends of his accuser Virginia Giuffre if they could help prove that an apparent allegation claiming Professor Hawking had engaged in an underage orgy was false.
Family response and context on Professor Hawking's condition
A spokesperson for the Hawking family emphasised the scientist's professional stature and long illness. The family statement noted that Professor Hawking made major contributions to physics in the 20th century and was the longest-known survivor of motor neurone disease; the condition left him reliant on a ventilator, a voice synthesiser, a wheelchair and round-the-clock medical care. The spokesperson said any insinuation of inappropriate conduct on his part is wrong and far-fetched.
Public file notes and page prompts
The publicly released file carried website text offering email updates and referencing a privacy notice. The page also included a note that notifications can be managed in browser preferences and an instruction to refresh the browser to be logged in.
Recent updates indicate these documents and images have expanded the available record of Professor Hawking's attendance at Epstein-linked events; details may continue to evolve as review of the material proceeds.
