Hyatt's Pritzker Steps Down Over Epstein Ties

Thomas Pritzker acknowledges "terrible judgment" in maintaining contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Thomas Pritzker, the executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels, announced on Monday that he will step down from his role and not seek re-election to the company's board in 2026. Pritzker cited his "terrible judgment" in maintaining contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell as the reason for his decision.

Why it matters

Pritzker's resignation highlights the continued fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, which has ensnared numerous high-profile individuals in politics, finance, academia, and business. Hyatt, as a major global hotel chain, has faced scrutiny over its leadership's ties to Epstein, and Pritzker's departure is seen as an effort to distance the company from these controversial associations.

The details

In his statement, Pritzker acknowledged that his continued contact with Epstein and Maxwell, even after Epstein's 2008 conviction for prostitution charges, was a lapse in judgment that he deeply regrets. Pritzker has served as Hyatt's executive chairman since 2004 and has overseen the company's growth, including taking it public and adopting an "asset-light" strategy. However, the revelations about his ties to Epstein have become a distraction and liability for the company.

  • On Monday, February 16, 2026, Thomas Pritzker announced his resignation as executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels.
  • Pritzker will not seek re-election to Hyatt's board in 2026.

The players

Thomas Pritzker

The 75-year-old executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels who is stepping down from his role due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender whose ties to prominent individuals in politics, finance, academia, and business have been the subject of intense scrutiny and legal proceedings.

Ghislaine Maxwell

A British socialite who was convicted of sex trafficking minors in connection with Jeffrey Epstein's criminal activities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Good stewardship also means protecting Hyatt, particularly in the context of my association with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell which I deeply regret. I exercised terrible judgment in maintaining contact with them, and there is no excuse for failing to distance myself sooner.”

— Thomas Pritzker, Executive Chairman, Hyatt Hotels (Newsmax)

The takeaway

Pritzker's resignation highlights the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal and the need for corporate leaders to carefully scrutinize their associations and maintain the highest ethical standards, even with individuals who may have significant influence or wealth. Hyatt's decision to accept Pritzker's resignation demonstrates the company's commitment to upholding its reputation and values in the face of these controversies.