Feb 10 β€’ 05:00 UTC πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί Australia ABC News AU

Chappell Roan splits with Wasserman agency amid Maxwell email controversy

Pop star Chappell Roan has ended her relationship with the Wasserman talent agency following controversy over flirtatious emails exchanged between agency head Casey Wasserman and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell.

Chappell Roan, an emerging pop star, has publicly announced her split from the Wasserman Talent Agency, which is headed by Casey Wasserman, who has been embroiled in controversy due to leaked emails from over 20 years ago. In these emails, Wasserman engaged in flirtatious exchanges with Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex trafficker, which have raised significant concerns regarding the ethical standards maintained within his agency. Following this scandal, Mr. Wasserman has issued an apology for his past communications with Maxwell, acknowledging the inappropriate nature of the correspondence.

The emails were part of a broader investigation unveiled by the US Department of Justice, which recently published documents linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, known for his connections to high-profile individuals and criminal activities related to sex trafficking. These documents, particularly the troubled history involving Maxwell, have prompted artists like Roan to reconsider their affiliations and the integrity of their representation in the entertainment industry. In an era where accountability and ethics are increasingly demanded from those in positions of power, Roan's decision reflects a growing movement among artists to prioritize safety and dignity over career strategies.

In her statement on social media, Roan emphasized the importance of having representation that resonates with her values and supports her personal beliefs about safety in the industry. By parting ways with the Wasserman agency, she hopes to encourage a significant shift in the industry towards greater accountability and transparency. Her actions not only highlight her personal stance but also serve as a call-to-action for other artists navigating similar dilemmas in a challenging entertainment landscape.

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