Chappell Roan has built her career on unapologetic female-first principles and extraordinarily catchy pop songs. So we can only imagine her horror when it was revealed that Casey Wasserman, the boss of the talent agency that represents her, was in the Epstein files up to his eyeballs.
These included excruciating correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell, in which he says to her: “I think of you all the time. So, what do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?” and she offers to give him a massage that would “drive a man wild.” Barf.
Wasserman’s affection was apparently reciprocated, with Maxwell asking him whether fog would mean “you can float naked down the beach and no one can see you unless they are close up?”. Wasserman is also listed as flying on Epstein’s private jet, which, let’s face it, is not a good look.
“Meaningful change in our industry requires accountability”
Now, Roan has said she simply can’t countenance working with an organization with links to Jeffrey Epstein. Via Instagram, she confirmed she’d dumped the agency and said:
“Artists deserve representation that aligns with their values and supports their safety and dignity. This decision reflects my belief that meaningful change in our industry requires accountability and leadership that earns trust.”
For his part, Wasserman has been contrite and apologetic, insisting: “I deeply regret my correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell”, and underlining that their messages were sent “long before her horrific crimes came to light”, adding:
“I never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. As is well documented, I went on a humanitarian trip as part of a delegation with the Clinton Foundation in 2002 on the Epstein plane. I am terribly sorry for having any association with either of them.”
While this may be a defense, flirting with Ghislaine Maxwell is not something you want in black and white for the world to see.
This is all coming at a terrible time for Wasserman, as his public profile is skyrocketing due to his being the public face of the Los Angeles Olympics. He spearheaded the successful campaign to bring the games back to the USA, but is now mired in some very murky water.
Frankly, Roan absolutely made the right call here. If you’re a feminist artist doing her best to stand up for women, the absolute last thing you need is being in business with a man with links to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. You pay talent agencies to make you look good – and Wasserman has been doing the exact opposite!
