Wasserman Agency Sale Follows Epstein Files Fallout
Casey Wasserman, the founder and CEO of the Wasserman Group talent agency, has informed employees that he is selling the company. This decision comes in the wake of damaging revelations from the recently released Jeffrey Epstein files, which exposed flirtatious email exchanges between Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell.
Apology and High-Profile Departures
In a message to staff seen by The Independent, Wasserman expressed deep regret. "I'm deeply sorry that my past personal mistakes have caused you so much discomfort," he wrote. "It's not fair to you, and it's not fair to the clients and partners we represent so vigorously and care so deeply about." The apology followed a wave of departures from high-profile clients, including musicians Chappell Roan, Orville Peck, and Chelsea Cutler, as well as soccer star Abby Wambach. Other clients, like DJ John Summit, had threatened to leave unless Wasserman stepped down.
It is crucial to note that there is no suggestion Wasserman participated in the crimes of Maxwell and Epstein, nor has he been formally accused of any wrongdoing. The fallout stems from the association and personal communications revealed in the documents.
Details from the Epstein Files
The Justice Department's release of three million pages from the Epstein files included email correspondence that brought Wasserman's relationships to light. In 2003, when Wasserman was in his late 20s and married, he engaged in flirtatious emails with Maxwell. One read, "Where are you, I miss you. I will be in nyc for 4 days starting april 22...can we book that massage now?" Another asked, "So what do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?"
Furthermore, in 2002, years before Epstein's first conviction in Florida, Wasserman and his then-wife flew on Epstein's private plane during a charitable trip that included former President Bill Clinton.
Focus Shifts to 2028 Olympics
Wasserman, 51, told employees he would now devote his attention to preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, where he serves as chairman of the organizing committee. Executives for the 2028 Olympics confirmed earlier this week that Wasserman would continue in this role, though it remains unclear if this decision will hold firm given the ongoing controversy.
In his staff email, Wasserman reiterated his regret and stated he had "limited interactions" with Epstein and Maxwell before criminal charges were brought against them. He also expressed solidarity with the victims, writing, "The pain experienced by the victims of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell is unimaginable — and I'm glad, as I'm sure you all are, that those who helped them commit their crimes are rightly being held accountable." Epstein died by suicide in 2019, while Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for child sex trafficking and other charges.
Leadership Transition
While the sale process is underway, Wasserman informed staff that Mike Watts, the company's chief operating officer, will assume day-to-day control of the business. The Independent has reached out to the Wasserman Group for further comment on the situation.
