CBS News seems poised to retain Peter Attia, a prominent longevity expert, as an on-air contributor, even after the disclosure of extensive and inappropriate communications between Attia and the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This decision has ignited frustration among network staff and drawn sharp criticism from former colleagues and external figures.
Internal Conclusions and Official Silence
According to insiders, CBS News staffers have unofficially concluded that Attia will remain with the network, a sentiment that solidified about a week ago. One CBS News employee, speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization, confirmed this internal belief. Officially, however, CBS News has maintained silence on the matter, declining to comment when approached recently.
Attia was among 19 on-air contributors announced by editor-in-chief Bari Weiss during an all-staff meeting on January 27, with Weiss expressing excitement about the appointments. The network described these contributors as experts in their fields, aimed at significantly expanding its knowledge base. Attia, known for his popular podcast and expertise in longevity and preventative medicine, has faced skepticism from some medical professionals, but his hiring was initially seen as a strategic move.
Revelations from Epstein Documents
The situation escalated on January 30, when the U.S. Department of Justice released millions of documents, revealing that Attia had expressed fondness for Epstein and used graphic language in emails. A search of Attia's name in the database yields 1,838 results, highlighting the extent of their correspondence.
In one email from January 2016, Attia wrote to Epstein's assistant, stating, "I go into JE withdrawal when I don’t see him." Another email from 2015 hinted at Attia's awareness of Epstein's misdeeds, though Attia has denied referring to criminal sexual activity. He wrote, "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 …"
Additionally, a particularly lewd 2016 email from Attia to Epstein included the phrase, "Pussy is, indeed, low carb. Still awaiting results on gluten content, though." Correspondence also showed that Attia stayed at one of Epstein's apartments, with Attia commenting in February 2016, "I’m spoiled after staying in your great place. Mine is kind of a dump."
Attia's Apology and Defense
On February 2, Attia published a lengthy message to his employees, addressing his connections to Epstein. He asserted that he was not involved in any criminal activity and that his interactions had nothing to do with Epstein's sexual abuse or exploitation. Attia clarified that he was never on Epstein's plane, island, or present at any sex parties.
He apologized for the emails, describing them as "embarrassing, tasteless, and indefensible," and took responsibility for their public release. Attia admitted to meeting Epstein approximately seven or eight times between 2014 and 2019, primarily for research studies and introductions to others, and occasionally answered Epstein's medical questions or recommended doctors.
Attia emphasized that the person he is today, nearly a decade later, would not write such emails or associate with Epstein at all.
Network Response and Backlash
Attia appeared in an October episode of 60 Minutes, interviewed by correspondent Norah O'Donnell, who praised him as a pioneer and star in longevity medicine. CBS had planned to re-air this interview on February 8, Super Bowl Sunday, but canceled it amid the backlash.
While Attia remains on the payroll as a contributor, it is unclear when or if he will appear on air again. Weiss had encouraged shows to book the new contributors, but programs are not obligated to feature specific individuals. Attia has kept a low profile, not posting on social media since his apology and not releasing new podcast episodes this month.
Criticism from Former Colleagues and Others
Jennifer Ashton, a former CBS News medical correspondent who later served as ABC News's chief health and medical correspondent, criticized CBS News for not taking action against Attia. She stated on Instagram, "The fact that CBS News hasn’t taken action is deeply troubling. People have been fired from network television for far less. Morality clauses exist for a reason. If documented language like this doesn’t cross that line, then the bar has fallen dangerously low."
Mary Claire Haver, a menopause specialist, announced that she would not appear on CBS Mornings to promote her forthcoming book, The New Perimenopause, due to the network's decision to retain Attia. In her Instagram post, she said, "But given their decision to retain Peter Attia, I’m making the decision not to go on CBS. This is my way of saying no, I’m not going to stand for this."
The controversy continues to unfold, with CBS News facing scrutiny over its handling of the situation and the broader implications for media ethics and accountability.
