The family of theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking has clarified the presence of two women in a photograph that has surfaced in connection with Jeffrey Epstein, asserting that these women served as Hawking's long-term caregivers in the United Kingdom. The photo, which shows a smiling Hawking alongside the women in bikinis, was released in documents from the U.S. Department of Justice. It is reported to have been taken in 2006 at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in St. Thomas, coinciding with a scientific symposium where Hawking delivered a talk on quantum cosmology, during which Epstein was also in attendance.

According to a representative for Hawking's estate, although the photograph has prompted speculation, the scientist's family simply wishes to clarify the context behind it, not providing further details on who took it or how it became associated with Epstein's files. This clarification comes amidst the discussions surrounding Epstein's notorious reputation and the implications of his connections to various individuals. Hawking's involvement with Epstein, especially in light of this photograph, has led to various interpretations and has sparked discussions in the media regarding the nature of those associations.

The situation underscores the challenges of public perception and the impact of controversial associations, especially posthumously for figures such as Hawking, whose legacy is significantly tied to his scientific contributions. The family's emphasis on the women's roles as caregivers suggests a desire to protect Hawking's image from misconstrued narratives, especially as the revelations around Epstein's network continue to evolve and provoke public discourse.