Can Epstein’s Rise to Power Be Traced to the Mogul Behind Victoria’s Secret?

Rolling Stone

by Elisabeth Garber-Paul

February 19, 2026

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Billionaire Les Wexner, founder of L Brands and former owner of Victoria’s Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch, testified before the House Oversight Committee about his decades-long relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Wexner described being “duped by a world-class con man,” detailing how he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities despite their close ties since the 1980s. Wexner claimed to have cut all contact with Epstein in 2007 after discovering financial misappropriation, though records show they exchanged emails as late as 2008. He emphasized his innocence regarding Epstein’s crimes and expressed sympathy for victims, while also denying any infidelity in his marriage. Wexner’s involvement with Epstein began in the mid-1980s when he was introduced by a mutual acquaintance. Initially, Epstein provided free financial advice before becoming Wexner’s official advisor. Despite warnings from Wexner’s previous advisor, Harold Levin, who reportedly advised him to avoid Epstein due to smelling “a rat,” Wexner continued the relationship. This decision led Levin to resign, according to Wexner’s spokesperson. In 1989, Wexner purchased a $13.2 million Manhattan townhouse through a corporate entity, with claims that Epstein was involved in the purchase. However, Wexner’s spokesperson clarified that Epstein had no interest in the entity at the time of acquisition. The relationship deepened in the 1990s as Epstein managed Wexner’s finances and curated an image of legitimacy while hiding his criminal activities. House Oversight Committee member Robert Garcia expressed skepticism about Wexner’s testimony, stating that Epstein’s financial empire

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Originally published on Rolling Stone on 2/19/2026