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Viral Trump-Epstein Video Revealed as AI-Generated Fake
A video circulating widely on social media allegedly showing former U.S. President Donald Trump and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein at a social gathering with young girls has been definitively debunked as fake. The deceptive clip, which gained renewed traction following the U.S. House Oversight Committee’s publication of thousands of pages of records related to Epstein, was created using artificial intelligence technology.
The video began spreading across multiple platforms including Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and Threads in mid-November 2025, with captions describing it as “A normal clip of Trump and Epstein watching girls dance in 1993.”
Fact-checkers have determined the footage was fabricated using AI tools to manipulate a genuine 1997 photograph. The original image showed Trump, Epstein, and Belgian model Ingrid Seynhaeve at a Victoria’s Secret party in New York City. Critically, no children appeared in the authentic photo.
The original photograph appears to have first surfaced publicly in the 2017 book “Filthy Rich: The Shocking True Story of Jeffrey Epstein – The Billionaire’s Sex Scandal.” On page 222 of the publication, the image is captioned: “Jeffrey Epstein, Donald Trump, and (newly signed Trump Model) Ingrid Seynhaeve, attending the Victoria’s Secret Angels party at Laura Belle club in New York City on April 8, 1997.”
The New York Post also published what appears to be an enhanced version of the photo with a similar caption, though the publication did not cite its original source. Additional photographs from the same 1997 Victoria’s Secret event featuring Trump in identical clothing are available through Getty Images archives, further confirming the origin of the manipulated image.
Digital forensics experts point to several telltale signs of AI manipulation in the circulated video. These include unnaturally smooth skin textures, unrealistic facial expressions, and awkward movements typical of AI-generated content. The analysis suggests that AI tools were used to transform the still photograph into video format while inserting a completely fabricated scene showing underage girls.
Multiple independent fact-checking organizations have reached the same conclusion about the video’s inauthenticity. Italian fact-checker Open.Online and BBC Verify both analyzed the clip and determined it was AI-generated rather than authentic footage.
This isn’t the first time such deceptive content involving Trump and Epstein has circulated. In July 2025, fact-checkers debunked a similar AI-generated video allegedly showing Trump pointing at a preteen girl while standing with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former associate who was convicted for her role in his sex trafficking operation.
The emergence of this sophisticated fake video highlights the growing challenge of AI-generated misinformation. As technology advances, distinguishing between authentic and fabricated content becomes increasingly difficult, particularly when manipulations are based on real photographs or leverage existing relationships between public figures.
The Trump-Epstein relationship has been the subject of significant scrutiny over the years. While the two were photographed together at various social events in the 1990s and early 2000s, manipulated content like this video distorts the factual record and spreads misinformation.
Media literacy experts warn that as election cycles approach, voters should exercise increased vigilance regarding sensational videos, especially those showing controversial or inflammatory scenes that cannot be verified through multiple reputable sources. The sophistication of AI tools means that visual “evidence” can no longer be taken at face value without careful verification.
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8 Comments
This is a concerning case of disinformation. It’s important to rely on verified facts and credible sources when it comes to sensitive political and legal matters. Spreading unsubstantiated claims, even if they align with certain narratives, can do more harm than good.
Agreed. Using AI to fabricate evidence is extremely troubling. We should be vigilant about fact-checking and not jumping to conclusions based on doctored media.
This is a prime example of the dangers of misinformation in the digital age. It’s vital that we scrutinize the sources and validity of any claims, particularly those involving public figures and legal issues. Fact-checking must be a priority.
While the original photo is concerning, the fabricated video takes things too far. We should be careful not to spread unverified claims, even if they confirm our existing beliefs. Maintaining objectivity is crucial for reliable reporting.
Well said. Fact-checking is a fundamental responsibility, especially for sensitive topics. Jumping to conclusions based on doctored media undermines the pursuit of truth.
It’s disheartening to see how easily manipulated digital media can be. This case highlights the need for improved media literacy and better safeguards against the creation and distribution of synthetic content. Fact-checking remains essential.
While the Trump-Epstein connection is highly controversial, this video appears to be a malicious attempt to further sway public opinion. Fact-checking is crucial to uphold journalistic integrity and prevent the spread of misinformation.
Absolutely. Generating fake footage, even for political purposes, erodes trust in media and democratic institutions. We must be discerning consumers of information in the digital age.