Michael Ovitz Abruptly Leaves Deposition Amid Questions About Jeffrey Epstein Ties

Michael Ovitz, co-founder of the Creative Artists Agency (CAA), left a deposition in June 2024 after refusing to answer questions about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, according to court documents and legal filings. The incident occurred during a proceeding in a lawsuit filed by actress Julia Ormond, who alleges CAA failed to protect her from Harvey Weinstein’s alleged sexual assault in 1995.

Deposition Breakdown: Ovitz’s Outburst and Legal Consequences

Ovitz was testifying in a New York court case brought by Ormond, who claims CAA knew of Harvey Weinstein’s “bully” behavior but did not warn her before sending her to a dinner meeting with him. During the deposition, Ovitz repeatedly criticized Weinstein, calling him a “bully” and stating he avoided working with him. However, he refused to discuss his ties to Epstein, a convicted sex offender, leading to his abrupt exit.

“I’m not going to discuss anything about Jeffrey Epstein,” Ovitz said, according to a transcript filed in the case. He later removed his microphone, exited the room, and slammed the door. Ormond’s attorneys have since requested that Ovitz be held in contempt, arguing his actions undermined the legal process.

“Ovitz has no plausible defense for his contemptuous conduct,” wrote Ormond’s attorney, Meredith Firetog, in a motion for sanctions. The court has not yet ruled on the request.

Ormond’s Lawsuit and CAA’s Defense

Ormond sued CAA, Weinstein, Miramax, and Disney under New York’s Adult Survivors Act in 2023. She alleges that CAA knew of Weinstein’s misconduct and failed to protect her, leading to her alleged assault at a Miramax-owned apartment in 1995. While Disney and Miramax settled, CAA has denied wrongdoing, maintaining that its agents did nothing wrong.

Ovitz, who left CAA in 1995, was questioned about his knowledge of Weinstein’s behavior and the agency’s culture. He stated he was unaware of sexual misconduct allegations against Weinstein until they became public in 2017. When asked about his friendship with Epstein, Ovitz initially denied it but later acknowledged visiting Epstein’s home in 2012, citing a recommendation from JPMorgan Bank.

Epstein’s emails, released by the Justice Department in 2024, include messages between Ovitz and Epstein. One email from 2012 reads: “I would love to see you.” Another mentions Ovitz looking forward to a meeting in St. Barts, a location linked to Epstein’s legal troubles.

Legal and Industry Implications

The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of entertainment industry practices, particularly how agencies and studios handled allegations of harassment and abuse. CAA has faced criticism for its role in the Weinstein scandal, though it has not been directly sued by multiple victims. The agency’s defense in Ormond’s case centers on its claim that it had no knowledge of Weinstein’s actions.

Ormond’s attorney, Kevin Mintzer, argued that Ovitz’s refusal to answer questions about Epstein undermined the deposition. “He showed contempt for the proceedings throughout,” Mintzer wrote. CAA’s legal team countered that the Epstein-related questions were outside the scope of the case, though the court has not yet addressed this argument.

What Happens Next?

The court will determine whether Ovitz’s actions constitute contempt, which could lead to an arrest warrant. Meanwhile, the case continues to shed light on the broader culture of secrecy and power in Hollywood. Ormond’s lawsuit is one of several recent high-profile cases targeting industry leaders for their roles in enabling misconduct.

As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome could set a precedent for how entertainment companies are held accountable for their responsibilities in protecting employees and clients from abuse.