Grammy-winning singer Chappell Roan announced Monday she is leaving Wasserman, the talent agency founded by entertainment mogul Casey Wasserman, citing concerns over his connection to Jeffrey Epstein.
“Artists deserve representation that aligns with their values and supports their safety and dignity,” Roan wrote on Instagram. “This decision reflects my belief that meaningful change in our industry requires accountability and leadership that earns trust.”
Wasserman’s Appearance in Epstein Files
The controversy follows the release of federal documents related to Epstein, a convicted sex trafficker who died in 2019 while awaiting trial. The files include emails showing Wasserman communicated with Epstein’s associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, in 2003, years before her sex trafficking convictions. In one message, Wasserman, who was married at the time, expressed personal interest in Maxwell.
Wasserman has apologized for the correspondence, describing it as occurring “long before [Maxwell’s] horrific crimes came to light.” He also emphasized that he “never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein,” noting only a documented humanitarian trip in 2002 with the Clinton Foundation that involved Epstein.
Industry Response
Roan is among the growing list of artists publicly distancing themselves from Wasserman. Singer Ricky Montgomery and indie pop group Water From Your Eyes criticized the agency founder on Instagram. Montgomery wrote that he hopes Wasserman “steps down” while his team works to remove his name from their work.
Bethany Cosentino of Best Coast also called out Wasserman, saying she “did not consent to having my name or my career tied to someone with this kind of association.” She added, “Pretending this isn’t a big deal is not an option for me.”
Wasserman is also facing calls to resign as chairman of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee, though the International Olympic Committee vice president recently expressed “full trust” in him.
A Push for Accountability
Roan’s decision highlights a larger conversation in the entertainment industry about accountability and ethical leadership. Artists are increasingly scrutinizing the people who represent them, emphasizing the need for transparency and integrity in talent management.
Wasserman and his agency did not respond to requests for comment regarding Roan’s departure.
