Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk appears to have had more frequent and friendly contact with Jeffrey Epstein than was previously known. These details have emerged from a new batch of Epstein Files released by the US Justice Department on Friday.

The documents include emails and related records that show Musk and the British financier exchanged cordial messages on at least two occasions. The emails suggest that plans were discussed for Musk to visit Epstein’s private island, Little St James.

Plans for island visit discussed in emails

According to the newly released records, Musk and Epstein communicated in 2012 and again in 2013 to explore possible dates for a visit. The discussions focused on Musk traveling to Little St James during the holiday period.

However, the documents do not show any evidence that the visit ever happened. Records indicate that Musk eventually canceled the trip due to what was described as “logistical reasons.”

In one email dated 13 December 2013, Musk wrote, “Will be in the BVI/St Bart’s area over the holidays. Is there a good time to visit?” Epstein replied, “Any day 1st - 8th . Play it by ear if you want. Always space for you,” according to the documents.

Emails show friendly tone and scheduling details

Following this exchange, Musk sent several emails sharing details of his schedule. The two men eventually agreed on January 2 as a possible date to meet.

However, the exchange ended with Epstein informing Musk that he would be unable to leave New York. Epstein expressed disappointment about the change of plans and suggested meeting at another time.

“Bad news- Unfortunately, my schedule will keep me in New York. I was really looking forward to finally spending some time together with just fun as the agenda. So I am very disappointed. Hopefully, we can schedule another time in the near future,” Epstein wrote.

Later emails mention travel and parties

The documents also include an email Epstein sent to Musk in November 2013, asking, “How many people will you be for the heli to the island?”

Musk replied, “Probably just Talulah and me. What day/night will be the wildest party on your island?” This message appeared to refer to his former wife, actor Talulah Riley.

In another exchange dated December 25, Musk responded to an email in which Epstein encouraged him to visit and offered the use of his helicopter.

“Do you have any parties planned? I’ve been working to the edge of sanity this year, and so, once my kids head home after Christmas, I really want to hit the party scene in St Barts or elsewhere and let loose. The invitation is much appreciated, but a peaceful island experience is the opposite of what I’m looking for,” Musk wrote.

Epstein replied, “Understood, I will see you on st Barth, the ratio on my island might make Talilah uncomfortable.” Musk responded, “Ratio is not a problem for Talulah.”

Emails draw attention due to Musk’s past remarks

These revelations have drawn wide attention because Musk has been openly critical of people linked to Epstein. The newly disclosed emails appear to contrast with Musk’s earlier statements denying any meaningful relationship with the financier.

In 2019, Musk told Vanity Fair that Epstein was “obviously a creep.” He also said Epstein “tried repeatedly to get me to visit his island. I declined.”

The emails revealed by the Justice Department date back several years after Epstein’s 2008 conviction in Florida for soliciting prostitution from a minor.

Background on Epstein case

In 2019, authorities arrested Epstein again, this time on federal sex-trafficking charges involving underage girls. Before the case could go to trial, Epstein died in jail the same year.

The release of these emails has added to ongoing scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s connections with powerful figures and renewed debate over what those relationships involved and what was known at the time.