Talent is departing from Wasserman Group following the release of documents linking founder and CEO Casey Wasserman to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The latest release revealed email exchanges between Wasserman and Maxwell, adding to previous knowledge of Wasserman traveling on Epstein’s plane in 2002.
Artists Respond to Epstein Files
Singer Chappell Roan announced her departure from the agency via Instagram, stating, “As of today, I am no longer represented by Wasserman, the talent agency led by Casey Wasserman.” Roan emphasized the importance of aligning with values and accountability, adding, “No artist, agent or employee should ever be expected to defend or overlook actions that conflict so deeply with our own moral values.”
Other artists are taking a more assertive stance. Best Coast’s Bethany Cosentino issued an open letter calling for Wasserman to step down and for the company to change its name. Some artists are reportedly offering an ultimatum: Wasserman must step down or they will leave the agency.
Broader Implications
Wasserman also serves as the Chairperson of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics Organizing Committee. He met with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December. Pressure is mounting from Los Angeles politicians for Wasserman to resign from this role as well, though the Olympics committee has so far stood by him.
In response to the fallout, Wasserman Group removed the list of artists on its roster from its website over the weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Chappell Roan to leave Wasserman?
Chappell Roan stated she left Wasserman due to Casey Wasserman’s appearance in the Epstein files and the resulting conflict with her own moral values.
Is anyone else calling for Casey Wasserman to step down?
Bethany Cosentino of Best Coast has publicly called for Wasserman to step down, and some artists are threatening to leave the agency if he does not. Some Los Angeles politicians are pressuring him to resign from his role with the 2028 Olympics.
What has Wasserman Group done in response to the situation?
Wasserman Group removed the list of artists on its roster from its website.
How will this situation impact the broader talent agency landscape remains to be seen.
