AceShowbiz - Russell Simmons recently spoke out to clarify rumors linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. During an appearance on the Podcast and Chill show, Russell Simmons dismissed any close association with Epstein, explaining why his name appeared in the Epstein Files.

Russell Simmons stated, "My name is in the Epstein Files because a Ugandan model wanted to give me her bible." He identified the model as Miss Uganda and added that another mention was related to a discussion involving Deepak Chopra. According to Simmons, Chopra had asked Epstein if he wanted to visit Simmons' home during an event honoring Chopra for his work with Simmons' art foundation. "That's f-in' it!" he emphasized.

Russell Simmons also said he does not recall ever meeting Epstein, who died by suicide on August 10, 2019, while detained in New York City’s Metropolitan Correctional Center. Simmons acknowledged he has moved in many circles, joking that "every famous person is in there, somehow."

This clarification comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Simmons, who has faced multiple sexual misconduct allegations since the #MeToo movement began in 2017. Several women, including Drew Dixon, Jenny Lumet, Keri Claussen Khalighi, and Paz de la Huerta, publicly accused Simmons of rape, harassment, coercion, or other forms of misconduct linked to his influence in entertainment.

Russell Simmons has consistently denied any allegations involving non-consensual sex, maintaining that all his relationships were consensual. Following these accusations, he stepped down from leadership roles in several companies and currently resides in Bali, Indonesia, where he reportedly manages a wellness resort.