Channel 4 examines The Epstein Files with Lion Television and Emily Maitlis

Channel 4 has commissioned All3Media-owned Lion Television to make a documentary series examining the Jeffrey Epstein case, fronted by journalist and broadcaster Emily Maitlis.

Emily Maitlis

The Epstein Files (working title) was commissioned by Louisa Compton, head of news, current affairs and specialist factual and sport at C4, and Adam Vandermark, commissioning editor, news and current affairs.

All3Media will be handling international distribution of the series, which promises to deliver “unprecedented access, explosive testimony and forensic analysis of the documents, networks and powerful individuals connected to Epstein’s decades-long criminal operation.”

It will be produced by Lion Television for Channel 4, with the prodco’s creative director, Daniel Pearl, serving as executive producer and Catey Sexton as director, in association with All3Media International.

Maitlis, who famously interviewed the then Prince Andrew about his links to deceased billionaire paedophile Epstein on the BBC in 2019, said: “I’ve spent my career covering stories that those in power would rather we didn’t. The Epstein case is that story writ large – a web of wealth, influence and impunity that destroyed lives and was shielded by institutions we are supposed to trust. The survivors have waited long enough. I am determined that this series will provide answers, not just raise more questions.”

Compton added: “The Jeffrey Epstein story is an exposure of how power protects itself, how wealth distorts justice, and how abuse can be hidden in plain sight for decades.

“This series will confront the uncomfortable truth at the heart of the case: what it reveals about the world we live in, and who it is designed to serve. Emily Maitlis, whose interview with the former Prince Andrew became one of the defining moments in the public reckoning with the Epstein case, is the perfect person to lead this investigation.”