Gigi Hadid is defending herself and her sister, Bella Hadid, after they were mentioned in newly released documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.
In a 2015 email included in files released by the U.S. Department of Justice, an unidentified person asked Epstein how the Hadid sisters had “become models and make so much money.” After Epstein replied, “You know,” the person suggested that their father had “paid the agency.” Epstein answered, “No,” before adding, “Because they follow directions, it’s that simple.”
The exchange sparked online backlash, with some social media users criticizing Gigi for not responding immediately.
The 30-year-old model later addressed the situation in a since-deleted Instagram comment.
“Horrible to read someone you’ve never met speak about you that way. Especially in this context,” Gigi wrote.
“To be named in those files… is disturbing,” she continued. “I want to state unequivocally that I have never had any affiliation with that disgusting human being.”
Gigi and Bella are the daughters of real estate developer Mohamed Hadid and former model and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum Yolanda Hadid. Gigi signed with IMG Models in 2012 and went on to become one of fashion’s biggest stars, walking for brands including Versace, Chanel, and Ralph Lauren.
Bella later followed, building her own successful modeling career.