Chappell Roan, the singer who recently garnered attention for her daring naked dress at the Grammys, has parted ways with her talent agency, Wasserman, due to CEO Casey Wasserman's connection to the Jeffrey Epstein files. Roan announced her decision via Instagram Stories on February 9, 2026, stating that she holds her teams to the highest standards and feels a duty to protect them.
Roan emphasized that artists, agents, and employees should not be expected to defend or overlook actions that conflict with their moral values. She expressed respect and appreciation for the agents and staff who work tirelessly for their artists but stated she refuses to passively stand by. Roan believes that meaningful change in the industry requires accountability and leadership that earns trust.
Casey Wasserman's name surfaced in the latest release of documents related to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The documents included suggestive correspondence between Wasserman and Maxwell dating back to 2003. One email from Wasserman to Maxwell read, "So what do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?". Wasserman also traveled on Epstein's plane in 2002 during a humanitarian trip with a Clinton Foundation delegation.
Wasserman has since issued a statement expressing regret for his correspondence with Maxwell, which occurred over two decades ago, long before her crimes were known. He maintains that he never had a personal or business relationship with Epstein and is terribly sorry for any association with either of them.
Roan is not the only artist to leave Wasserman Agency in light of these revelations. Other artists and music agents are also departing from the talent management company. Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino has called for Wasserman's removal and a change of the business name. North Carolina rock band Wednesday also announced their decision to cut ties with the agency. Some music agents have presented Wasserman with an ultimatum: step down or they will leave the agency.
Casey Wasserman also serves as chairman of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games organizing committee. The controversy has sparked calls for his removal from the committee as well. Wasserman acquired Paradigm Talent Agency's North American live music representation business in April 2021, forming Wasserman Music. In addition to the recent controversy, Wasserman was also under fire in 2024 for alleged extramarital affairs with women who worked for him or were close to his professional circle. Billie Eilish left the agency a year ago due to revelations of the CEO's alleged affairs.