Author Stephen King ignited a social-media storm after writing on 15 July, “The Epstein client list is real. So is the Tooth Fairy and Santa Claus,” a post widely interpreted as dismissing the existence of any definitive roster of people linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Follow-up messages from the novelist compared the purported list to UFO sightings, further inflaming debate. The remarks triggered thousands of critical responses, with some users speculating—without evidence—that King himself might appear on such a list, while others accused him of minimizing allegations tied to Epstein. The backlash was especially notable because King has been a frequent critic of former President Donald Trump; detractors claimed the tweet placed him, unexpectedly, on the same side as Trump allies who question the list’s authenticity. King’s comments arrive as Washington again wrangles over public access to Epstein-related records. House Speaker Mike Johnson said this week he supports full transparency and has urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to clarify the status of files the Justice Department referenced earlier this year. The department has maintained that no formal client list exists, despite continued pressure from lawmakers and activists for comprehensive disclosure.