Zayn Malik named in Epstein files, but the internet is cheering him instead of cancelling: 'Always on the right side of history'

Recently released unsealed documents from the U.S. Department of Justice—commonly referred to as the Epstein files—have sparked massive online interest. These files include millions of pages of emails, correspondence, and notes connected to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier whose network spanned political, business, and cultural elites.

As the Epstein files continue to make waves online, several celebrities have found themselves facing backlash for being named in the documents. But one mention has stood out for a very different reason. Former One Direction singer Zayn Malik was included not because of any alleged wrongdoing, but because an email to Epstein listed him among public figures described as “anti-Israel.” Instead of outrage, the internet cannot stop praising him. Many fans are calling it a badge of honor, applauding Zayn for standing by his political views long before it became common or safe to do so.



Zayn Malik’s name appears in an email included among the newly released Epstein files. The correspondence was a 2014 email sent to Epstein from the Jewish News Syndicate (JNS), which listed celebrities alleged to hold “anti-Israel” views during that year’s Gaza conflict. Zayn was named not because he communicated with Epstein, but because his public statements on Palestine were noted in the press and then listed in the email body.

The email also reportedly listed several other public figures for similar reasons tied to their views on Israel and Palestine. These included Emma Thompson for backing a boycott of the Israeli Habima Theatre, Stevie Wonder for withdrawing from a Friends of the Israel Defense Forces gala, and Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem for signing an open letter criticizing Israel’s Operation Protective Edge. Roger Waters was named for his involvement with the BDS movement, while Russell Brand, Danny Glover, and Dustin Hoffman appeared in some versions of the list due to past statements seen as critical of Israel.

After his name popped up in the Epstein files for what the internet is calling all the right reasons, fans couldn’t stop hyping up the British singer. Over on Reddit, many pointed to the mention as proof that Zayn has always been willing to speak up about Palestine, even when it wasn’t popular or safe to do so. What really surprised people, though, is realizing he was just 21 years old at the time, making his stance feel even bolder in hindsight.

“Zayn… the king that you are. Always on the right side of history,” one user wrote. Another added, “It’s so hard to find a man like Zayn these days. He’s an unproblematic king who supports Palestine, cares about animal welfare, helps feed schoolchildren living below the poverty line, and supports LGBTQ+ people. An A+ human being.” A third fan admitted, “My heart almost sank seeing his name and Epstein in the same sentence. But Zayn’s a good one. Probably why he’s an independent artist and keeps his distance from Hollywood. The industry is wicked.” Others echoed the sentiment, with one user writing, “ZAYN, our hearts are overflowing with love and respect for you. Thank you, Z King.”

Some fans also took to Twitter to praise the Pillowtalk singer, with one user writing, "One thing about Zayn is he’s always been on the right side of history, to the point he was on an 'anti-Israel' blacklist by fucking Jeffrey Epstein. I don't think people realize how dangerous it is to be on those guys' bad side." All the racism and hate he faced all those years make sense now."





Zayn Malik first made headlines in July 2014 when he tweeted the simple hashtag “#FreePalestine” while he was still part of One Direction. The post quickly went viral, drawing massive attention from fans around the world. While many praised him for speaking out, the tweet also sparked intense backlash, including reported death threats. Despite the pressure, Zayn chose not to delete the post and stood firmly by his stance through the online storm.