Casey Wasserman Steps Down as LA28 Chair Amid Epstein Files Fallout

Los Angeles 2028 Olympics chair Casey Wasserman announced on February 13, 2026, that he is selling his talent agency following the release of documents linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, triggering a growing wave of repercussions. Soccer player Abby Wambach and singer Chappell Roan have both announced they are parting ways with Wasserman’s agency People.

Epstein Files Reveal Wasserman’s Connections

The controversy stems from newly released documents detailing Wasserman’s interactions with Epstein and his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. The files show Wasserman flew on Epstein’s private jet with a group that included former President Bill Clinton The Wall Street Journal. Emails from 2003 surfaced, revealing flirtatious exchanges between Wasserman and Maxwell, well before Epstein’s crimes came under scrutiny and over a decade before Maxwell’s 2020 arrest on sex-trafficking charges MSN.

In one email, Maxwell wrote, “Casey – I will be coming back to NY torn late afternoon. I shall be wearing a tight leather flying suit.”

Wasserman’s Response and Apology

Wasserman has expressed regret for his messages with Maxwell, stating they occurred “long before her horrific crimes came to light” and that he never had any personal or business relationship with Epstein. He announced his decision to sell the agency in a memo to staff, shared with Business Insider, citing the distraction his past actions have created.

“I’m deeply sorry that my past personal mistakes have caused you so much discomfort. It’s not fair to you, and it’s not fair to the clients and partners we represent so vigorously and care so deeply about,” Wasserman wrote. “The pain experienced by the victims of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell is unimaginable – and I’m glad, as I’m sure you all are, that those who helped them commit their crimes are rightly being held accountable.”

Calls for Resignation and LA28’s Response

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass publicly called for Wasserman to step down as chair of LA28, the organizing committee for the 2028 Summer Olympics. Bass stated she disagreed with the LA28 Executive Committee’s previous decision to stand by Wasserman, following a review that found his relationship with Epstein and Maxwell “did not go beyond what has already been publicly documented” ABC News.

While Bass acknowledged she cannot directly fire Wasserman, she emphasized the need to evaluate the leadership of LA28 and ensure the city is fully prepared to host the Olympics.

Transition of Leadership at LA28

Wasserman stated that Mike Watts will assume day-to-day control of the business while he focuses on delivering a successful 2028 Olympic Games for Los Angeles.