CNN Host Erica Hill Challenges Megyn Kelly’s Epstein Comments

CNN’s Erica Hill confronted conservative journalist Bradley Devlin during a recent segment regarding controversial comments made by former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly about Jeffrey Epstein. Hill’s intervention came as Devlin sought to contextualize Kelly’s remarks about Epstein’s sexual abuse of underage girls, which have drawn significant backlash.

On her podcast, The Megyn Kelly Show, Kelly claimed that a friend with insight into the Epstein case believed the late financier was “not a pedophile” but rather “into the barely legal type.” During the discussion, Hill expressed her skepticism about the implications of Kelly’s comments, stating, “I have to be honest, I’m not sure what adding that changes.”

Hill highlighted the disturbing nature of the distinctions Kelly appeared to draw, questioning Devlin directly: “The thought of this person who she’s discussing somehow seeming to make the case that it’s okay if a girl is 15 versus 8. Bradley, why even raise that point?”

Devlin hesitated to defend Kelly’s remarks, mentioning that a comedian discusses similar topics, suggesting that discussing the specifics of such interactions often sounds inappropriate. He remarked, “I understand what Megyn was trying to do there, I just don’t think—” before being interrupted by Hill.

“I’m going to stop you there because I don’t,” Hill interjected. She emphasized that this was not a comedic situation and pressed Devlin for clarity on Kelly’s intent. Devlin struggled to articulate a defense, suggesting that Kelly may have intended to differentiate Epstein’s operations from broader discussions of child sex trafficking. He added, “Now, again, distinction without difference, as she pointed out.”

The conversation shifted as Hill invited another panelist, journalist and Vox podcaster Noel King, to weigh in. King condemned Kelly’s comments, stating, “I have a 15-year-old niece, and what I would say is, I don’t think Megyn Kelly needs to articulate every single thing that crosses her mind.” King characterized Kelly’s remarks as “appalling,” underscoring the serious implications of casual commentary on such sensitive matters.

As discussions around Epstein’s legacy and the complexities of his criminal activities continue to unfold, the fallout from Kelly’s comments remains a focal point of public discourse. The episode serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with public platforms and the potential consequences of trivializing serious issues related to abuse and exploitation.