As part of a large document release that included thousands of videos and images, one exchange from the interview has generated widespread discussion. During the conversation, Epstein is asked whether he believes he could be compared to the devil.
“No, but I do have a good mirror,” Epstein replied, smiling.
When pressed further, he appeared briefly uncomfortable and responded, “I don’t know. Why would you say that?”
Bannon suggested that Epstein displayed traits often associated with manipulation and control. Epstein questioned the comparison and stated, “The devil scares me.”
Minimizing wrongdoing
Elsewhere in the interview, Epstein appeared to downplay the seriousness of his criminal record. When described as a high-level sexual predator, he disagreed with the label.
“No, I’m the lowest,” he said, while acknowledging that he was a criminal.
Discussion of wealth and ethics
The interview also touched on Epstein’s finances and professional relationships. When questioned about whether his wealth was ethically questionable, Epstein denied wrongdoing and said he believed moral judgments were complex.
“Ethics is always a complicated subject,” he said, adding that charitable donations could still have positive outcomes regardless of their source.
Why the footage is resurfacing
Epstein was arrested in July 2019 on federal charges related to sex trafficking and died by suicide in August of that year while awaiting trial.
The interview became public following the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Congress approved unanimously and President Donald Trump signed into law in November 2025. The legislation led to the release of a large volume of previously sealed investigative material.
For many observers, the interview provides insight into how Epstein viewed himself — and how he responded when confronted with criticism. One remark in particular has stood out to viewers:
“No, but I do have a good mirror.”