Faith Kates: A Controversial Connection to Jeffrey Epstein
Reaction from the field
The relationship between Faith Kates, a prominent figure in the modeling industry, and the late Jeffrey Epstein has come under scrutiny, revealing significant implications for the safety of models and the integrity of the industry. Kates, who ran the Next Management modeling agency until November 2025, had a close friendship with Epstein that lasted nearly 40 years. This connection has raised alarms about the potential risks models faced under her influence.
Kates was 68 years old at the time of the investigation, and her ties to Epstein have been documented through extensive communication records. Emails indicate that Kates and Epstein communicated frequently, with over 5,000 mentions of Kates in the files. This level of correspondence suggests a deep and ongoing relationship, one that continued even after Epstein’s 2009 conviction for soliciting a child for prostitution.
Despite the serious nature of Epstein’s offenses, Kates offered him support following his conviction, which raises questions about her judgment and priorities. Notably, Kates was involved in discussions about introducing models to Epstein even after his first prison sentence, indicating a troubling disregard for the implications of her actions. In 2010, she began connecting Epstein with models, a practice that continued for years.
In a notable incident, Epstein offered Kates a $6 million loan to buy out her co-owners at Next Management, which she ultimately declined. This financial gesture further complicates the narrative, suggesting a level of dependency or influence that could have affected her professional decisions. Kates’ spokesperson has asserted that she never placed a model in harm’s way, emphasizing her commitment to their safety.
Next Management has publicly stated that Kates’ relationship with Epstein was unknown to them until recent disclosures. This lack of awareness raises questions about the oversight within the agency and the potential risks posed to models under Kates’ management. Despite the serious allegations surrounding Epstein, it is noteworthy that none of the models interviewed have alleged they were abused by him, which complicates the narrative surrounding Kates’ role.
As the investigation continues, Kates has stepped down from her position at Next Management to focus on charity work, a decision that may reflect an attempt to distance herself from the controversy. However, the implications of her past actions linger, and the modeling industry must grapple with the questions raised by her long-standing connection to Epstein.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of Kates’ involvement with Epstein and the impact on the models she represented. The modeling industry is now faced with the challenge of ensuring the safety and well-being of its talents, while also addressing the legacy of those who may have compromised their integrity.