Comedian called Rochester a ‘comedy hell,’ according to Epstein files

Newly released documents from legal proceedings have revealed a veteran comedian’s less-than-favorable opinion of Rochester, New York. Comedian Bobby Slayton reportedly referred to the city as “comedy hell” in correspondence with the late Jeffrey Epstein.

A Comedic Disappointment?

The exchange surfaced as part of a larger release of over 3 million pages of documents related to Epstein’s case. Slayton and Epstein maintained regular communication, with over 2,000 documents detailing their interactions. These included messages where Slayton expressed gratitude for being allowed to stay at Epstein’s New York City apartment while on tour.

Did You Know? Bobby Slayton’s name appears in more than 2,000 documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.

Rochester and a Dinner Invitation

In September 2014, Slayton lamented his location in a message to Epstein, wishing he were in New York City for dinner with Epstein and filmmaker Woody Allen. He did not elaborate on the reasons behind his description of Rochester as a “comedy hell.”

A Conflicted View?

Interestingly, Slayton had previously expressed positive sentiments about Rochester. In a 2013 interview with the Democrat & Chronicle, he highlighted three things he looked forward to during visits: radio host Brother Wease, the restaurant Mamasan’s, and the grocery store Wegmans. He described a routine of enjoying these local spots during his time in the city.

Expert Insight: The contrast between Slayton’s 2014 message and his 2013 interview suggests that perceptions of a city’s appeal can be highly subjective and influenced by immediate circumstances, such as professional opportunities or social connections.

Connections to Epstein and Others

The released files reveal that Slayton and Epstein discussed Slayton’s career and made plans to meet with other comedians. One message from January 2014 inquired about the possibility of a lunch with Chris Rock, though it remains unclear if the meeting ever occurred. Discussions also involved Woody Allen’s wife, Soon Yi, and potential invitations to other comedians like Lewis Black.

Lewis Black previously recounted on the “We Might Be Drunk” podcast an instance where he dined with Epstein, Allen, Soon Yi, David Brenner, and Dick Cavett at Epstein’s home, invited by Slayton. Black stated that Slayton had described Epstein as a fan of stand-up comedy and that he did not initially recognise any concerning behavior.

Slayton, who has not been accused of wrongdoing, has not publicly commented on the newly released documents. He described meeting Epstein after an invitation from Ghislaine Maxwell to perform at a private event with Allen, Bill Clinton, Nobel Prize winners, and others. He also mentioned staying at Epstein’s apartment on occasion, noting the presence of women, but stating they appeared older, not teenagers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Bobby Slayton say about Rochester?

Bobby Slayton referred to Rochester, New York, as “comedy hell” in a message to Jeffrey Epstein in September 2014.

Who else was mentioned in connection with Epstein and Slayton?

Woody Allen, Chris Rock, Soon Yi, Lewis Black, David Brenner, Dick Cavett, and Ghislaine Maxwell were all mentioned in the released documents in relation to Slayton, and Epstein.

Did Slayton ever express positive feelings about Rochester?

Yes, in a 2013 interview, Slayton stated he enjoyed visiting Rochester and specifically looked forward to seeing Brother Wease, dining at Mamasan’s, and shopping at Wegmans.

As more documents from the Epstein case are released, further details about the connections between Epstein and various public figures could emerge. It remains to be seen if these revelations will lead to further scrutiny or investigations.