Peter Attia Steps Down from CBS News Role Following Epstein Files Release
Peter Attia, a health influencer and expert in longevity medicine, has officially stepped down as a contributor to CBS News following the revelation of his communications with Jeffrey Epstein. The departure was confirmed by a network source after The Hollywood Reporter first reported on the matter.
Attia had recently been introduced as part of CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss’s initiative to refresh the news division’s contributor lineup. The circumstances surrounding his exit arose after the Justice Department released extensive files last month, detailing Attia’s interactions with Epstein, a convicted sex offender.
In a post on X dated February 2, Attia expressed his regret, stating, “I apologize and regret putting myself in a position where emails, some of them embarrassing, tasteless, and indefensible, are now public, and that is on me. I accept that reality and the humiliation that comes with it.”
He recounted that his association with Epstein stemmed from a lack of exposure to high-profile individuals at the outset of his career, describing Epstein’s lifestyle as “excessive and exclusive.” Despite the implications of the emails, Attia denied any involvement or knowledge of criminal activities.
There had been speculation regarding CBS News’ decision to sever ties with Attia. Bari Weiss, known for her criticisms of “cancel culture,” faced scrutiny amid deliberations about handling the fallout from the controversy.
One email that gained particular attention was sent on June 24, 2015, in which Attia mentioned a “fresh shipment” to Epstein. The response from Epstein included a noted redaction. In his message, Attia remarked, “You know the biggest problem with becoming friends with you? The life you lead is so outrageous, and yet I can’t tell a soul…”
In his follow-up post, Attia clarified that the redacted image was of an adult woman and that the “fresh shipment” referred to bottles of metformin, which he had recently obtained for personal use.
