Hollywood Power Broker Casey Wasserman Forced to Sell Agency After Epstein Scandal

Wasserman's stake in the $2 billion talent agency could be worth over $800 million, but he faces a massive PR crisis.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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After a large-scale revolt at his namesake talent agency that saw the departure of two dozen artists, including Chappell Roan, Casey Wasserman announced he would be stepping down as CEO and exiting the business entirely. Wasserman's stake in the $2 billion agency could be worth over $800 million, but he is being forced out due to a flirtatious email exchange with Jeffrey Epstein accomplice Ghislane Maxwell that appeared in the latest Epstein files release.

Why it matters

Wasserman's exit from the agency he founded in 2002 highlights the severe reputational damage he has faced since the Epstein scandal. The talent representation business is highly dependent on client relationships, and the departure of major artists could significantly impact the agency's valuation and Wasserman's personal net worth.

The details

Wasserman, who owns around 40% of the agency, said in a memo to employees that he was stepping down because he had 'become a distraction.' The agency, which represents actors, musicians, sports stars and creators, earned over $900 million in revenue in 2024 with EBITDA margins of 16-18%. Forbes estimates the total enterprise could be worth over $2 billion, making Wasserman's stake worth at least $800 million. However, the final payout could end up in the mid-nine figures after debt and taxes.

  • In 2003, Wasserman exchanged flirtatious emails with Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epstein's accomplice.
  • In 2024, a Daily Mail report accused Wasserman of having a string of affairs with employees, which he denied.
  • On February 1, 2026, Wasserman put out a public statement addressing the Maxwell emails.
  • On February 10, 2026, the LA28 board unanimously backed Wasserman to continue leading the 2028 Olympics committee.
  • On February 17, 2026, Wasserman announced he would be stepping down as CEO and exiting the business entirely.

The players

Casey Wasserman

A 51-year-old power broker who founded the talent agency in 2002 and owns around 40% of the company.

Ghislaine Maxwell

Jeffrey Epstein's accomplice, with whom Wasserman exchanged flirtatious emails in 2003.

Chappell Roan

A musical artist who departed Wasserman's agency amid the scandal.

Karen Bass

The Mayor of Los Angeles, who disagreed with the LA28 board's decision to back Wasserman.

Providence Equity Partners

The Rhode Island-based private equity firm that holds the remaining stake in Wasserman's agency.

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What they’re saying

“No artist, agent or employee should ever be expected to defend or overlook actions that conflict so deeply with our own moral values.”

— Chappell Roan, Musical artist (Instagram)

“I cannot fire him, but I have an opinion. And my opinion is that he should step down.”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles (CNN)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.