Chappell Roan Cuts Ties with Wasserman Amid Epstein File Controversy
A growing wave of artists are distancing themselves from Wasserman Music following revelations linking the agency’s founder and CEO, Casey Wasserman, to documents released in connection with the Jeffrey Epstein case. Pop star Chappell Roan announced her departure from the agency on February 9, citing a need to protect her team and uphold her moral values.
The decision by Roan, known for her critically acclaimed live performances, underscores a broader reckoning within the music industry regarding accountability and ethical leadership. She stated via an Instagram story, “As of today, I am no longer represented by Wasserman, the talent agency led by Casey Wasserman. I hold my teams to the highest standards and have a duty to protect them as well. No artist, agent or employee should ever be expected to defend or overlook actions that conflict so deeply with our own moral values.”
A Cascade of Departures
Roan’s move follows similar actions by other artists represented by Wasserman, one of the largest talent agencies in the music business. Earlier on Wednesday, the band Wednesday publicly announced their separation from the agency. This followed calls for Wasserman’s resignation from Beach Bunny, Water From Your Eyes, Salute, and a collective of music agents within the company, who threatened to resign if he remained in his position.
Last week, Best Coast frontwoman Bethany Cosentino published an open letter directly addressing Wasserman, urging him to step down. “I’m speaking out because pretending this is normal isn’t normal. Because people in power can’t keep skating by,” she wrote. “Artists are not interchangeable assets. We are people. Many of us are women. Many of us, myself included, are survivors. We deserve systems that let us work without asking us to compromise our values in exchange for opportunity.”
Wasserman’s Extensive Roster and Response
Wasserman represents a diverse and prominent roster of artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Lorde, Phish, SZA, Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Childish Gambino, Janelle Monae, Animal Collective, Geese, and Tyler, the Creator. Notably, the agency removed its artist roster from its website over the weekend, a move that amplified concerns and speculation.
Roan was previously managed at Wasserman by Jackie Nalpant, Kiely Mosiman, Adele Slater, and Anna Bewers. She emphasized her respect for the agents and staff, stating, “I have deep respect and appreciation for the agents and staff who work tirelessly for their artists and I refuse to passively stand by. Artists deserve representation that aligns with their values and supports their safety and dignity.”
This series of departures highlights a growing demand for accountability within the entertainment industry and a willingness among artists to prioritize ethical considerations when choosing representation. Roan’s decision, and those of her peers, reflect a belief that “meaningful change in our industry requires accountability and leadership that earns trust.”
