Hollywood power players rally around LA Olympic Chief Casey Wasserman

Hollywood power players are standing by Casey Wasserman, the embattled LA Olympics Chief, despite the recent scrutiny surrounding his past connections to convicted sex offenders Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. At the Variety Power of Law Breakfast event in Los Angeles, prominent attorney Patricia L. Glaser vocally defended Wasserman, calling for industry support amidst the growing controversy.

Glaser emphasized the importance of backing Wasserman for the success of the upcoming L.A. Olympics, praising his executive skills and ability to bring people together. She urged the entertainment industry to rally behind him despite the ongoing allegations.

The spotlight on Wasserman intensified after the Department of Justice released documents related to Epstein, revealing emails between Wasserman and Maxwell from 2003. In the emails, Wasserman expressed longing for Maxwell and made references to booking a massage. Despite the suggestive nature of the correspondence, Wasserman has vehemently denied any substantial relationship with Epstein, clarifying that their interactions were limited and regrettable.

Addressing his presence on Epstein’s private jet during a humanitarian trip in 2002, Wasserman expressed remorse for associating with both Epstein and Maxwell. The flight, which also included notable figures like Bill Clinton, Kevin Spacey, and Chris Tucker, has been a subject of scrutiny in the media.

Despite the controversy surrounding Wasserman, key industry figures like Glaser continue to support him, citing his importance in organizing the 2028 Summer Olympics. Glaser, who received the Variety 2026 Power of Law Award for her outstanding work as a business trial lawyer, highlighted Wasserman’s role in the success of the event.

As the industry stands divided on the issue, Wasserman remains focused on his responsibilities as the chairman of the Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The ongoing support from influential figures like Glaser underscores the complexity of navigating personal connections in the public eye, especially in the competitive world of Hollywood and sports.