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 troubling implications for model safety and the ethics of industry connections. Kates, who ran Next Management until November 2025, had a close friendship with Epstein, introducing him to various models throughout their nearly 40-year relationship. This connection raises significant questions about the potential influence Kates wielded in the industry and the safety of the models she represented.
Kates, now 68 years old, was known to have offered support to Epstein following his 2009 conviction for soliciting a child for prostitution. Emails from the investigation indicate that Kates and Epstein communicated frequently, with over 5,000 mentions of Kates in the files. This extensive correspondence suggests a deep level of trust and familiarity between the two, which has prompted further examination of Kates’ role in Epstein’s network.
Despite the troubling nature of their relationship, Kates’ spokesperson has claimed that she never put a model in harm’s way. Furthermore, none of the models interviewed have alleged that they were abused by Epstein, which complicates the narrative surrounding Kates’ involvement. However, the fact that Kates continued to connect models with Epstein even after his first prison sentence in 2009 raises ethical concerns about her judgment and the potential risks posed to the young women she represented.
In 2010, Kates began discussing models with Epstein, and by 2011, she was reportedly involved in conversations about introducing models to him. This ongoing connection, despite Epstein’s criminal history, has led to a backlash against Kates and her management practices. Notably, Epstein even offered Kates a $6 million loan to buy out her co-owners at Next Management, which she declined. This financial gesture further complicates their relationship, suggesting a level of dependency that raises eyebrows.
Next Management has publicly stated that Kates’ relationship with Epstein was unknown to them until recent disclosures, distancing themselves from the implications of her actions. A spokesperson for the agency expressed regret, stating, “To the extent Ms. Kates’ independent actions impacted or involved Next clients and employees, we are deeply sorry.” This statement reflects the agency’s desire to mitigate any fallout from Kates’ connections, as the modeling industry grapples with the repercussions of Epstein’s actions.
While the investigation continues, the modeling industry faces a reckoning regarding its practices and the safety of its models. The revelations surrounding Kates and Epstein have sparked discussions about the ethical responsibilities of agents and managers in protecting their clients. As the industry seeks to rebuild trust, the impact of Kates’ relationship with Epstein will likely linger, serving as a cautionary tale for future generations in the modeling world.
As the situation develops, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of Kates’ involvement with Epstein and the implications for those within her agency. The investigation into their relationship continues to unfold, leaving many questions unanswered about the safety and well-being of models in an industry that has historically been plagued by issues of exploitation and abuse.