Carole Radziwill Addresses Being Named in Epstein Files Ahead of “Real Housewives of New York” Return

Carole Radziwill, a familiar face from “The Real Housewives of New York City,” is preparing for her return to reality television amid renewed scrutiny following the resurfacing of her name in the Jeffrey Epstein files. Speaking on Tuesday, September 1, at a panel hosted by Andy Cohen in Sagaponack, New York, Radziwill spoke candidly about the complexities of her past and the significance of transparency in discussing difficult topics.

During the panel event for the new season of the show, Radziwill, aged 63, expressed that she was unprepared for the “perfect storm of craziness” that awaited her upon her return. The resurfacing of her memoir, “What Remains”, alongside her connection to Epstein, has thrust her back into the public eye just as her book gained popularity again after the success of “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.”

Cohen, who steered the conversation, pointed out that Radziwill’s name coming up in the Epstein files was a unique challenge. He noted that she saw this as an opportunity rather than a setback. “I felt like this isn’t something that I shy away from,” she revealed. “Many people found their names in these files, and I think it’s crucial to discuss it and to foster transparency.”

Radziwill emphasized that she was unaware of the extent of Epstein’s criminal actions back when she was associated with individuals who later became entangled in scandal. “Of course, I didn’t know anything, as no one would have known 20 years ago,” she said, acknowledging the complexity of her past connections.

In a March 2026 interview with The New York Times, Radziwill mentioned her short-lived friendship with Ghislaine Maxwell, a known associate of Epstein. She remarked on the discomfort of realising that someone who was once part of her social circle could be involved in abhorrent activities. “Imagine knowing someone and being friendly with them, and then they turn out to be a monster,” she said, reflecting on the surprise and horror that such revelations often bring.

When discussing her feelings now about these past associations, Radziwill remarked that it is painful to reconcile the enjoyment of those relationships with their much darker repercussions. “It’s hard to think that someone you knew that long ago — and even called a friend at some point — was a horrible person doing horrible things,” she shared. Nevertheless, she viewed these revelations as a chance to engage in meaningful dialogue.

The panel discussion further highlighted Radziwill’s commitment to using her platform for advocacy, especially in solidarity with the victims of abuse. “There are real victims and survivors who have shown incredible bravery in standing up to powerful individuals,” she concluded, showing her support for those affected by similar experiences.

The anticipation for the upcoming 16th season of “The Real Housewives of New York City” continues to build, especially after a teaser released in July revealed a scene where Radziwill is confronted as “the one from the Epstein files.” She responded by clarifying that she has never visited Epstein’s infamous private island, Little Saint James.

Bravo had announced back in March that Radziwill would be rejoining the cast, marking her first return to the series since exiting after season 10 in 2018. Since her debut in the show’s fifth season in 2012, fans have watched her journey unfold alongside other cast members, including Jessel Taank, Erin Lichy, Sai de Silva, Daisy Toye, Hailey Glassman, and Erika Hammond.

The highly anticipated premiere of the 16th season is set for Tuesday, September 8, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo, with episodes available for subsequent streaming on Peacock. As the audience prepares for her return, Radziwill is determined to address her past while navigating the challenging waters of fame and accountability.

Those who may be affected by issues surrounding sexual abuse are reminded that support is readily available. The Crisis Text Line is accessible by texting “STRENGTH” to 741-741 to connect with a certified crisis counsellor.