Brett Ratner Clarifies Epstein Photo Connection

Director Brett Ratner, known for his work on “Melania,” has shared that the woman in an embrace with him in a photo from the Justice Department’s Epstein documents is actually his ex-fiancée. This information came to light in a recent report.

He stated, “About 20 years ago, I had a girlfriend. I was in love with her. We were engaged. She was my fiancé. We went to an event and were sitting on the couch. The photo was taken at that event,” during a conversation with a news outlet.

Ratner further emphasized that he has no connection to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, saying, “I didn’t have a personal relationship with him. I didn’t know him.” He clarified that the event was organized by his fiancée, and reiterated that the woman in the picture was indeed his fiancée at that time.

“It’s crazy to be involved in something like this. It’s terrible,” the director expressed.

At 56, Ratner has never been married, according to reports.

The images in question were released as part of approximately three million documents related to Epstein made available by the Justice Department.

In one of the recently unveiled photos, Ratner is seen wearing a white shirt and jeans, embracing a woman next to Epstein on the couch. Another image captures both Ratner and Epstein smiling.

Additionally, a prior photo included in the release shows Ratner with French modeling agent Jean-Luc Brunel, who died by suicide in 2022 following allegations of child rape.

“Melania” marks Ratner’s first full-length feature since sexual misconduct allegations arose against him in 2017. The documentary, centered on first lady Melania Trump, debuted in theaters Thursday, making a notable impact as one of the highest-grossing documentaries in a decade.

Its opening weekend grossed around $7 million, exceeding expectations and outperforming other recent films, like 2024’s “Am I Racist?” which had an initial gross of $5.4 million.