Following the recent disclosure of emails connecting Casey Wasserman to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, a significant stir has erupted within the Wasserman agency, which Wasserman founded in 2002. The entertainment mogul now faces increasing pressure to resign following calls from several prominent artists represented by his agency.
In a pointed open letter dated February 6, Bethany Cosentino, lead singer of Best Coast, expressed her outrage, stating, “The position Casey Wasserman has put his agents in is inexcusable.” Similarly, Lili Trifilio’s band Beach Bunny and Karly Hartzman from another band additionally demanded Wasserman step down, emphasizing that alignment with the agency under Wasserman’s leadership contradicts their values. Notably, singer Chappell Roan declared her departure from Wasserman soon after, denouncing any affiliation with actions conflicting with her moral beliefs.
Wasserman’s agency, representing a number of A-list artists such as Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, and Billie Eilish, has come under fire following recent public revelations regarding Wasserman’s past communications with Maxwell, including flirtatious comments made in 2003, years before Epstein’s arrest began to unfold. The agency’s reputation is now perceived as tainted, with many artists reportedly contemplating parting ways.
Moreover, the company has recently removed its extensive artist roster from its website, possibly as a strategy to shield its clients from public backlash. Rival agencies such as CAA and WME are reportedly eyeing potential deals to lure away key clients currently represented by Wasserman.
Wasserman publicly apologized on January 31, expressing regret over any association with Maxwell, who is currently incarcerated for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking operation. His apology was noted amidst rising scrutiny over his role leading the LA28 Olympic Committee, where political figures have begun to call for his resignation. Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath and members of the L.A. City Council have voiced concerns about the implications of Wasserman’s connections with a convicted felon on an event dedicated to inclusivity, particularly as LA28 promotes a record-level participation of women in the Games.
Despite the mounting calls for Wasserman’s ousting, many insiders suggest that replacing him at the helm of the LA28 committee would prove challenging, given his extensive involvement and strategic connections developed throughout the bid execution. He has successfully secured over $2 billion in sponsorship revenue for the upcoming Games, collaborating with major corporations and ensuring substantial support.
As discontent simmers within Wasserman’s agency and among affected artists, the full impact of this crisis on his long-standing business and the LA28 Games planning remains uncertain. The unfolding situation highlights significant moral and ethical concerns within the entertainment and sports industries, reflecting a broader shift towards accountability and transparency in leadership.
The events surrounding Casey Wasserman reflect not only an internal turmoil within the company but also emphasize a growing demand across industries for leaders to uphold values that resonate with their partners and clients. As artists and representatives speak out against such associations, it signifies a progressive movement towards greater responsibility in the entertainment landscape.