Major Talent Agency Faces Client Exodus Over Epstein File Revelations
Casey Wasserman's prominent Hollywood talent agency has experienced a significant wave of departures this week, as numerous embittered artists have removed themselves from its representation. This mass exodus follows the release of documents by the Department of Justice that included Wasserman's name in connection with the Jeffrey Epstein case. The 51-year-old entertainment mogul's raunchy email exchanges with Ghislaine Maxwell, dating back to 2003, were made public a fortnight ago, sparking widespread controversy and prompting immediate action from several high-profile clients.
Artists Take a Stand Against Agency Leadership
Despite Wasserman issuing a statement expressing deep regret for his correspondence with Maxwell, which occurred before Epstein's 2008 conviction and Maxwell's 2022 conviction, his apology has failed to prevent a substantial client rebellion. Multiple stars have publicly announced their decisions to part ways with the agency, citing moral objections and the need for accountability within the industry.
Chappell Roan Leads the Departures
Grammy-winning artist Chappell Roan, 27, severed ties with Wasserman on February 9, announcing her decision via Instagram. She emphasized that meaningful change requires leadership that earns trust, stating she holds her teams to the highest standards. Roan declared that no artist should defend actions conflicting with their moral values, confirming she is no longer represented by the agency led by Casey Wasserman.
Chelsea Cutler and Weyes Blood Follow Suit
Singer-songwriter Chelsea Cutler, 29, announced her departure on Tuesday, explaining she could not in good conscience remain silent about unethical actions. She expressed gratitude for her day-to-day team but emphasized artists' responsibility to stand for their beliefs. Meanwhile, Weyes Blood, whose real name is Natalie Mering, confirmed her exit at 37 years old, voicing respect for her booking agents while stating Wasserman's behavior conflicts fundamentally with her values.
Multiple Bands Join the Growing Rebellion
The rock band Dropkick Murphys confirmed their exit on February 6, citing the agency namesake's appearance in Epstein files as their reason for leaving. Canadian country star Orville Peck, 38, expressed sympathy for agency staff impacted by the client exodus while joining the departure list. Additionally, rock bands Hippo Campus and Wednesday announced their exits on February 10, with Wednesday members stating representation by a Wasserman-led company contradicts their values and hoping he steps down.
Wasserman's Controversial Correspondence Revealed
The released emails show highly flirtatious exchanges between Wasserman and Maxwell in 2003, while Wasserman's wife was eight months pregnant. Messages included Maxwell suggesting massage practices and risqué beach scenarios, with both parties using affectionate sign-offs. Wasserman has acknowledged traveling on Epstein's plane for a 2002 humanitarian trip with the Clinton Foundation but denies any personal or business relationship with Epstein or involvement in crimes.
Broader Implications for Hollywood Power Broker
Wasserman represents major music acts including Coldplay and Ed Sheeran, having expanded his roster by acquiring Paradigm agency in 2021 to add Billie Eilish. His high-profile connections were demonstrated at his 600-person 50th birthday bash in June 2024, attended by former President Bill Clinton and other political figures. This client exodus represents a significant challenge for the LA28 Olympics chair, who has previously faced allegations of romantic affairs with staffers throughout his marriage, which he dismissed as gossip.
The ongoing departures highlight growing demands for ethical accountability in entertainment industry leadership, as artists increasingly prioritize moral alignment with their representatives. With multiple clients publicly condemning Wasserman's associations and behavior, the agency faces mounting pressure to address leadership concerns while managing the practical impacts of losing numerous high-profile artists from its books.
