Skateboarding Icon Tony Hawk Addresses False Epstein Island Wedding Claims
Legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk is setting the record straight after online speculation falsely suggested he was married at convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's private island. The athlete, known as Birdman, categorically labeled these claims as "misinformation" in a detailed social media post.
Hawk Provides Detailed Wedding Timeline to Counter False Narrative
In an Instagram story posted on Thursday, Hawk presented a clear timeline of his four marriages, explicitly stating: "Here are the facts and timelines of my nuptials, and I apologize if they don't fit a narrative of nonsense." The skateboarding pioneer clarified that his weddings occurred at four distinct locations: his private residence in Fallbrook, California; the Hilton Hotel in San Diego; Tavarua Surf Island in Fiji; and Adare Manor in Ireland.
None of these locations correspond to Little Saint James, Epstein's private estate in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hawk emphasized this distinction while addressing the circulating rumors that have gained traction online.
Origins of the False Claims and FBI Document Context
The rumors appear to have originated from an FBI email dated October 22, 2024, which was released as part of documents made public under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. This email, written by a special agent investigating a minor trafficking case, included a victim's statement claiming she was present on Epstein's island when "Tony Hawk got married on the island."
The document was among numerous files that named various celebrities and high-profile individuals, though Hawk maintains the specific claim about his wedding is completely inaccurate.
Photographer Name Coincidence Adds to Confusion
Adding an unusual layer to the situation, one guest at Hawk's 2006 wedding in Fiji was named Mark Epstein—sharing the same name as Jeffrey Epstein's younger brother. This individual served as a photographer at the ceremony, capturing images of Hawk and his then-bride Lhotse Merriam.
Hawk clarified that this wedding guest has no connection whatsoever to the late sex trafficker, describing him instead as an "accomplished action sports photographer from Wyoming." This coincidence appears to have contributed to the confusion surrounding the false claims.
Hawk's Firm Denial and Call for Fact-Based Discourse
The skateboarding icon stated unequivocally that he has never met Jeffrey Epstein and has never visited his private island. In his social media post, Hawk emphasized the importance of verifiable information, writing: "This is all easily verifiable information. Facts are not fungible."
By providing specific details about his wedding locations and timeline, Hawk aims to counter what he describes as baseless speculation while reinforcing the need for factual accuracy in public discourse about sensitive matters involving high-profile individuals.
