Chappell Roan Cuts Ties with Wasserman Agency Over Epstein Files Revelation
Chart-topping music star Chappell Roan has become the latest high-profile artist to sever ties with the prominent talent agency led by Los Angeles 2028 Olympics chairman Casey Wasserman. This decisive move follows the public release of flirtatious emails exchanged between Wasserman and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell, an accomplice of the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Roan's Firm Stance on Moral Values and Industry Accountability
Roan, who is currently in Australia performing as part of the Laneway Festival tour, issued a powerful statement via Instagram on Tuesday, confirming her departure from Wasserman. "As of today, I am no longer represented by Wasserman, the talent agency led by Casey Wasserman," she declared.
The 27-year-old artist elaborated on her principles, stating: "I hold my teams to the highest standards and have a duty to protect them as well. No artist, agent or employee should ever be expected to defend or overlook actions that conflict so deeply with our own moral values."
Roan expressed respect for the hardworking agents and staff while emphasising her refusal to remain passive. "Artists deserve representation that aligns with their values and supports their safety and dignity," she asserted. "This decision reflects my belief that meaningful change in our industry requires accountability and leadership that earns trust."
Controversial Correspondence and Wasserman's Response
The controversy stems from emails sent in 2003, while Wasserman was married and three years before Epstein's arrest for soliciting prostitution. Among the millions of files released by the US Department of Justice in late January was one where Wasserman told Maxwell: "I think of you all the time. So what do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?"
Wasserman has since addressed the correspondence, stating: "I deeply regret my correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell which took place over two decades ago, long before her horrific crimes came to light." He added that he "never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein" but acknowledged participating in a 2002 humanitarian trip on Epstein's plane as part of a Clinton Foundation delegation.
"I am terribly sorry for having any association with either of them," Wasserman concluded in his statement.
Growing Exodus from Wasserman's Talent Roster
Roan joins a growing list of artists distancing themselves from Wasserman's agency. US band Wednesday released their own statement, explaining: "We were among the hundreds of artists who were appalled to find out about Casey Wasserman's communications with Ghislaine Maxwell. We feel strongly that we need to begin the process of extracting ourselves from Wasserman."
Despite these departures, Wasserman's agency continues to represent numerous top-tier talents including:
- Ed Sheeran
- Lorde
- Coldplay
- Pharrell Williams
Background on the Epstein-Maxwell Case
Ghislaine Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence after being found guilty of sex trafficking. Recent reports indicate she has suggested willingness to testify that former President Donald Trump did nothing wrong regarding his association with Epstein, should he grant her clemency.
Jeffrey Epstein was found dead in a US jail cell in 2019, with a medical examiner ruling his death a suicide. The ongoing revelations from the Epstein files continue to create ripples across various industries and public figures internationally.
