Challenges Faced by Les Wexner: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Les Wexner's life and career.

Leslie Wexner is an American billionaire businessman, best known as the driving force behind the Limited Brands empire, which included retail giants like Victoria's Secret, Bath & Body Works, Abercrombie & Fitch and La Senza. As chairman emeritus, Wexner shaped the landscape of American retail for decades through innovative marketing and merchandise strategies. Beyond his business ventures, Wexner has also been involved in philanthropy and political activism, solidifying his position as a notable figure in both the business and public spheres.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1996: Cocaine Found on Southern Air Transport Plane

In 1996, Customs agents found a hidden shipment of cocaine on a Southern Air Transport plane, an organization that Les Wexner and Jeffrey Epstein were involved with for transporting goods related to Wexner's businesses.

1996: Maria Farmer Reports Assault

In 1996, Maria Farmer contacted authorities about an assault she allegedly endured by Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell while working on Les Wexner's Ohio property.

1998: Southern Air Shut Down

In 1998, Southern Air Transport was shut down after Les Wexner had received federal aid for the relocation of the airline, just weeks before the CIA Inspector General released its official findings on Contra cocaine trafficking allegations.

2006: Epstein Charged in Florida

In early 2006, Jeffrey Epstein was charged in Florida with "multiple counts of molestation and unlawful sexual activity with a minor."

July 2019: Wexner Included on Epstein's "Co-Conspirators" List

In July 2019, Les Wexner was included on a list of Jeffrey Epstein's "10 co-conspirators" within an FBI email.

August 2019: Wexner Addresses Wexner Foundation

In August 2019, Les Wexner addressed the Wexner Foundation, stating that Jeffrey Epstein had "misappropriated vast sums of money" from him and his family.

January 14, 2021: Shareholders File Complaint Against Wexner

On January 14, 2021, L Brands shareholders filed a complaint stating that Les Wexner created a culture of misogyny, bullying, and harassment, and was aware of abuses by Jeffrey Epstein.

July 30, 2021: L Brands Agrees to Settlement

On July 30, 2021, L Brands agreed to a $90 million settlement to resolve derivative lawsuits related to claims of misconduct and abuses.

2025: Passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act

Following the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act in 2025, Les Wexner faced additional public scrutiny.

January 2026: Wexner Subpoenaed by US House Oversight Committee

In January 2026, Les Wexner was subpoenaed by the US House Oversight Committee of Congress to sit for a deposition.

February 10, 2026: Les Wexner Named as Unindicted Co-Conspirator

On February 10, 2026, Representative Ro Khanna stated that the FBI had named Les Wexner as an unindicted co-conspirator.

February 11, 2026: Wexner Ordered to Attend Deposition

On February 11, 2026, U.S. District Court Judge Michael H. Watson denied Wexner's motion to quash a subpoena. Wexner was ordered to attend a deposition regarding abuses by former Ohio State University staff physician Richard Strauss.