Casey Wasserman, the founder of the namesake talent agency and marketing firm, has made the difficult decision to put his company up for sale amidst the intense fallout from the recent revelations about his past relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell, as detailed in the Epstein files disclosure. This move comes after Wasserman acknowledged the discomfort his actions have caused to his staff and clients in a memo sent to Wasserman employees.
In the memo, Wasserman expressed deep regret for the mistakes of his past and stated that he believes he has become a distraction to the company’s efforts. As a result, he has initiated the process of selling the company, with Mike Watts taking on day-to-day control while Wasserman focuses on delivering a successful Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.
The decision to sell the agency, which also includes the Brillstein Entertainment Partners talent division known for representing A-listers like Brad Pitt, marks a significant shift for Wasserman. The specifics of the sale have not been disclosed, but Wasserman’s involvement in sports and media investments, as well as his role as chairman of LA28, the committee organizing the 2028 Summer Olympics, adds complexity to the process.
Wasserman’s reputation took a hit following the disclosure of his relationship with Maxwell, a convicted sex offender and associate of Jeffrey Epstein. While Wasserman has emphasized that he had no connections to Epstein and expressed remorse for his interactions with Maxwell, the damage to his business and personal image has been significant.
Recent departures from Wasserman’s agency, including notable artists like Chappell Roan, Gigi Perez, and Orville Peck, reflect the impact of the scandal on the company’s music division. Wasserman’s acquisition of Paradigm’s music operations in 2021 and Brillstein Entertainment Partners in 2023 had positioned the agency as a major player in the music industry.
Despite not being directly linked to Epstein’s crimes, Wasserman’s association with Maxwell and the previous allegations of inappropriate behavior with junior employees have tarnished his reputation. The decision to sell his agency is seen as a necessary step to address the fallout from these controversies and allow the company to move forward.
In his memo to staff, Wasserman expressed gratitude for their dedication and acknowledged the challenging situation. He highlighted the importance of the company and its clients, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring a successful transition during the sale process. As Wasserman navigates this difficult period, the future of his agency and its impact on the entertainment industry remain uncertain.
