Pop Star Chappell Roan Cuts Ties With Wasserman Agency After Casey Wasserman Named in Epstein Files
Los Angeles, Feb. 10, 2026 — Pop artist Chappell Roan has publicly announced that she is no longer represented by the talent agency led by Casey Wasserman, the high‑profile entertainment executive and chair of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics organizing committee, after revelations from newly released Jeffrey Epstein files sparked outrage across the industry.
Roan, who has risen to prominence with hit music and major award nominations, made the announcement via social media on Feb. 9, stating she would not remain with an agency whose leadership failed to align with her moral values. In her Instagram statement, she emphasized that artists deserve representation that supports their safety, dignity, and ethical standards, adding that she “refuse[d] to passively stand by.”
Epstein Files Reveal Controversial Correspondence
The controversy stems from recently released documents from the U.S. Department of Justice connected to the longtime financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which included email exchanges between Wasserman and Epstein’s associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, from more than two decades ago. In those communications, Wasserman made flirtatious remarks to Maxwell. Though neither Epstein nor Maxwell worked at Wasserman’s company, the emergence of these emails has ignited criticism.
Wasserman has apologized for the emails, saying the correspondence occurred long before Maxwell and Epstein’s criminal conduct was widely known and denying any direct involvement with Epstein. Despite this, the backlash has intensified, especially among artists and agents within Wasserman’s talent agency network.
Industry and Political Fallout
Roan’s departure from Wasserman Music has been followed by other artists publicly distancing themselves from the company. Musicians and agents alike have called for introspection and leadership change within the agency. Some senior agents are reportedly pressuring Wasserman to step down or for the company to undergo new ownership or rebranding due to the reputational damage.
The controversy has also drawn attention from political figures in Los Angeles. Local officials and Olympic supporters have suggested that Wasserman’s continued role as chair of the LA28 Olympic committee could distract from preparations for the Games and undermine public trust — particularly because Los Angeles organizers have publicly emphasized inclusivity and women’s participation.
Broader Reactions and Industry Impact
The incident has ignited broader discussion about accountability and ethical leadership in the entertainment industry. Roan’s departure is seen by many as a powerful stance in a moment when public scrutiny around industry power structures and ties to controversial figures is intensifying.
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