Wasserman’s Position in LA Olympics Amid Scrutiny

The organizers of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics have affirmed Casey Wasserman’s ongoing role as committee chairman despite the controversies surrounding his past connections with Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex trafficker.

Statement from LA28 Executive Committee

The LA28 executive committee declared their support, stating, “Mr. Wasserman should continue to lead LA28 and deliver a safe and successful Games.” This decision was announced shortly after some high-profile clients, including Grammy-award-winning artist Chappell Roan and retired U.S. women’s soccer star Abby Wambach, distanced themselves from Wasserman’s talent agency.

Wasserman’s Involvement with Maxwell and Epstein

Wasserman expressed remorse for engaging in email communication with Maxwell back in 2003. This correspondence was brought to light by the Justice Department, releasing files associated with Jeffrey Epstein, Maxwell’s ex-partner. Wasserman clarified that these interactions occurred over twenty years ago, prior to the exposure of Maxwell’s criminal activities. He explicitly stated that he hadn’t maintained any personal or business relations with Epstein.

Maxwell was convicted in 2021 for sex trafficking and received a 20-year sentence, whereas Epstein took his own life in jail in 2019 while facing federal charges. Importantly, Wasserman has not been accused of any criminal activities related to either Maxwell or Epstein.

“We found Mr. Wasserman’s relationship with Epstein and Maxwell did not go beyond what has already been publicly documented,” the LA28 committee highlighted.

The committee explained that Wasserman once flew on Epstein’s plane during a humanitarian mission organized by the Clinton Foundation, which was his only direct interaction with Epstein.

Reactions and Continued Support

The International Olympic Committee has shown its confidence in Wasserman, with IOC Vice President Nicole Hoevertsz expressing her “full trust” in his leadership.

Despite this backing, Wasserman faces mounting pressure. Indie musicians and other associates have voiced strong disapproval. Bethany Cosentino from the band Best Coast articulated her discomfort with being linked to Wasserman, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and accountability in leadership.

Through this turmoil, Wasserman remains committed to his role, aiming for a successful and memorable Olympics in Los Angeles.

— Daniel Arkin, reporting for NBC News