In early February 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice released many documents required by the Epstein Files Transparency Act. This cache showed private emails between Casey Wasserman, the chairman of the LA28 Olympic Organising Committee, and Ghislaine Maxwell.
The revelation has caused intense scrutiny of Wasserman’s leadership. It has also led to significant fallout in the sports and entertainment industries.
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The released documents show a series of “flirty” and suggestive emails from 2003. At that time, Wasserman was married. Maxwell was a key associate of the late convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein.
Key details from the correspondence include:
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Wasserman released a statement on January 31, 2026, saying he felt “deep regret” about the correspondence. He noted that these exchanges took place over twenty years ago, well before the “horrific crimes” of Maxwell and Epstein came to light.
Crucially, Wasserman stated:
“I never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.”
He did acknowledge flying on Epstein’s private plane in 2002. He was part of a humanitarian group with the Clinton Foundation. Now, he says he deeply regrets that connection.
Local officials in Los Angeles and talent from Wasserman’s agency responded swiftly to the news.
Key figures in L.A., including City Controller Kenneth Mejia and County Supervisor Janice Hahn, want Wasserman to step down from the 2028 Olympic Committee. They argue that his association with the Epstein circle, regardless of its nature, undermines the integrity of the Games.
Wasserman’s sports and music agency has faced immediate consequences. High-profile artists, including Chappell Roan, have reportedly cut ties with the agency. Roan said she expects her team to meet the “highest standards.” She believes artists should have representation that matches their moral values. Other acts, like the band Wednesday and Bethany Cosentino from Best Coast, have distanced themselves. They have also called for accountability.
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As of mid-February 2026, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has mostly stayed silent. They said Wasserman’s personal apology speaks for itself. While L.A. Mayor Karen Bass has not explicitly called for his resignation, she noted that the final decision rests with the LA28 board.
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