A Leadership Shift at One of Hollywood’s Largest Agencies

Casey Wasserman is exploring a sale of Wasserman Agency after newly released documents from the US Department of Justice revealed past correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell. The development, first reported by The Wall Street Journal on February 13, follows mounting backlash from clients and staff.

In a memo to employees, Wasserman said he had “become a distraction” and would hand over control to longtime executive Mike Watts. He apologized for “past personal mistakes” and stated he had “never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein,” noting that a 2002 trip aboard Epstein’s jet occurred “years before their criminal conduct came to light.”

Fallout Across Clients and Ownership

The controversy has already prompted high-profile departures. Grammy-winning pop artist Chappell Roan publicly left the agency, stating, “Artists deserve representation that aligns with their values and supports their safety and dignity.” Other artists, including Dropkick Murphys and Weyes Blood, have also spoken out.

The situation adds to previous reputational challenges. In 2024, Billie Eilish left Wasserman Music for rival agency William Morris Endeavor following tabloid scrutiny reported by the Daily Mail.

Private equity firm Providence Equity Partners, which first invested in Wasserman Agency in 2022 and is now its majority owner, expressed continued support. A spokesperson told Variety, “We believe deeply in the strength of the company and have full confidence in Mike and the leadership team… We remain fully committed to investing in its growth.”

Olympic Role Remains Intact

Despite the controversy, Wasserman will remain chairman of the LA28 Organising Committee for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. According to the WSJ, the LA28 board reviewed his interactions and unanimously voted to keep him in the role.

Wasserman has not been accused of illegal wrongdoing. Still, the episode underscores how reputational risk can reshape even the most established entertainment firms. As one Hollywood dealmaker told Variety, “He hasn’t violated any law that we know of… The sleaze factor is too high, and no client wants to be near that.”

The sale of Wasserman Agency marks more than a corporate transaction—it reflects a shifting industry standard where accountability, perception, and values alignment increasingly influence who represents Hollywood’s biggest names.