Billionaire Tom Pritzker announced his retirement as executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels on Monday, following revelations about his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This development comes in the wake of newly released files from the U.S. Justice Department that detailed high-profile associations linked to Epstein.
Having held the position since 2004, Pritzker stated that he would also not seek re-election to the company’s board. In his official statement, he expressed regret over his association with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, acknowledging, “Good stewardship also means protecting Hyatt, particularly in the context of my association with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell which I deeply regret.” He further admitted to exercising “terrible judgment” in maintaining contact with the duo and noted that there was “no excuse for failing to distance myself sooner.”
Pritzker’s departure signals ongoing repercussions for influential figures entangled in Epstein’s network, which has implicated numerous business and cultural elites. The newly disclosed documents revealed instances of Pritzker’s recurrent contact with Epstein, even after Epstein’s controversial 2008 plea deal related to procuring a minor for prostitution.
The fallout has not been limited to Pritzker. Notable figures, including economist Larry Summers, have faced significant consequences; Summers was banned for life from the American Economic Association due to his ties to Epstein. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the CEO of DP World, was also ousted following his close friendship with Epstein.
One striking example of the nature of Pritzker’s relationship with Epstein surfaced from communications in 2018, where he assisted Epstein with reservations for a woman traveling in Asia, who was reported to be one of Epstein’s girlfriends. In an email exchange, after Pritzker inquired about her plans, she responded, “Going to try to find a new girlfriend for Jeffrey,” to which Pritzker replied, “May the Force be with you,” accompanied by a smiley face emoji.
In light of Pritzker’s resignation, the Hyatt board has promptly appointed Mark Hoplamazian, the current president and CEO of Hyatt, as his successor, effective immediately.
CNN has reached out to the Pritzker Organization, which manages the family’s wealth and investments, where Pritzker is still listed as executive chairman. The implications of these developments continue to unfold, highlighting the deep connections many influential individuals had with Epstein and the ongoing scrutiny they face as a result.
