Wachtell Lipton’s Viral Central Park Kiss Exposes Broader Firm Scandal as $96M Partner Move Unfolds

Key points

• Nathaniel Cullerton, a 45-year-old partner, was placed on leave after a viral video showed him kissing 29-year-old associate Kelsey Borenzweig in Central Park.
• Gibson Dunn reportedly withdrew its offer to hire Cullerton, a move that could cost him millions in potential earnings.
• Senior partner Bill Savitt, who led the team, recently moved to Gibson Dunn with a reported $96 million three-year package.
• Sources claim Savitt and senior partner Sarah Eddy were in a romantic relationship, though Savitt denies it was an affair.
• The incident occurred despite Wachtell Lipton having no formal non-fraternization policy.

Background

This incident follows a year of public scrutiny regarding public displays of affection, notably the Coldplay concert scandal. The viral clip, filmed by TikTok creator Jay Guapo, has garnered millions of views and sparked debates over privacy and workplace conduct. The lawyers involved had previously worked on OpenAI's defense against Elon Musk's $150 billion lawsuit.

How outlets are covering it

The New York Post emphasizes the broader scandal, highlighting the alleged affair between Savitt and Eddy and the massive financial implications of Savitt's move. The Atlantic frames the event as part of a larger cultural trend of 'makeout police' and public shaming, comparing it to the Coldplay incident. The Times of India and Hindustan Times focus on the professional consequences for Cullerton, noting his leave and the rescinded job offer, while providing background on his personal life and legal career.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the intersection of social media, workplace ethics, and high-stakes legal careers. It raises questions about non-fraternization policies in elite law firms and the potential financial and professional repercussions of viral public behavior. The case also underscores the power of social media to influence corporate decisions and individual careers.

What to watch

Wachtell Lipton is expected to continue its internal investigation into the incident. The outcome of Cullerton's leave and any potential disciplinary action remain uncertain. The legal industry will likely monitor the fallout from Savitt's move to Gibson Dunn and the implications for firm policies regarding personal relationships.