Abercrombie & Fitch: Why Did Mike Jeffries Leave?

Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been a subject of renewed interest following the release of Netflix’s documentary “White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch” in 2022. The documentary delved into the brand’s success in the late ’90s and early ’00s, as well as the controversies and challenges it faced. This has left many wondering about Mike Jeffries’ current whereabouts and the reasons behind his departure from the fashion giant. In this article, we explore the events that led to Mike Jeffries’ departure and provide an update on his life today.

Mike Jeffries’ Exit from Abercrombie & Fitch

Mike Jeffries’ association with Abercrombie & Fitch began in 1992 when he was appointed as the CEO of the fashion brand by Leslie Wexner, a billionaire businessman and former close friend of Jeffrey Epstein. Under Jeffries’ leadership, Abercrombie & Fitch underwent a significant transformation, with the brand becoming synonymous with elitism, exclusivity, and a particular vision of masculinity and femininity. The iconic black-and-white images of chiseled, topless models associated with the brand were created under Jeffries’ direction.

During the ’90s and early 2000s, Abercrombie & Fitch enjoyed immense success. However, as highlighted in the Netflix documentary, controversies began to surround the brand. In 2002, there were protests against racist T-shirts and suggestive thongs marketed to pre-teen girls. In 2003, a group of former employees sued the company for racial discrimination, resulting in a $40 million settlement, although the company admitted no wrongdoing.

Mike Jeffries faced further challenges when Samantha Elauf won a Supreme Court case against Abercrombie & Fitch in June 2015. The case stemmed from the company’s refusal to hire her due to her wearing a headscarf.

Allegations of Exploitation

More recently, BBC Panorama reported allegations of exploitation involving Mike Jeffries and his partner, Matthew Smith. The investigation uncovered evidence suggesting that the couple had exploited men at events they hosted. Two former US prosecutors who reviewed the documents and testimony revealed by the BBC called for an investigation to determine whether charges for sex trafficking could be brought.

Abercrombie & Fitch, which previously considered Mike Jeffries its modern-day founder, distanced itself from his alleged behavior, stating that it was “appalled and disgusted” by the allegations. The company claimed that new leadership had transformed it into a “values-driven organization” with “zero tolerance for abuse, harassment, or discrimination.”

Where Is Mike Jeffries Now?

Mike Jeffries stepped down from his role as CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch in 2014. Since then, he has largely retreated from the public eye. Unconfirmed reports suggest that he now resides in Ohio with his partner, Matthew Smith, and their three dogs.

In his retirement statement, Mike Jeffries expressed pride in the accomplishments of the Abercrombie & Fitch team and stated that he believed it was the right time for new leadership to guide the company forward.

While Mike Jeffries’ legacy at Abercrombie & Fitch is marked by both success and controversy, his departure from the brand has allowed him to lead a more private life away from the spotlight.

Personal Life and Net Worth

Mike Jeffries is not married, but he has been in a relationship with his partner, Matthew Smith, for approximately 20 years. In his previous marriage to Susan Hansen, he has one son named Andrew.

As for his net worth, Celebrity Net Worth estimates Mike Jeffries’ wealth to be around $300 million. At the time of his retirement, Bloomberg reported that Jeffries was set to receive a retirement package worth $27.6 million, including a $19.33 million retirement plan with the company, $5.19 million in cash payments, and over $300,000 in benefits coverage.

Jeffries’ real estate holdings have also been notable, including the sale of his Manhattan townhouse for $12.9 million after initially listing it for $19.5 million.

Mike Jeffries’ life and career have seen significant ups and downs, and while he may have stepped away from the public eye, his impact on the fashion industry and the controversies associated with his tenure at Abercrombie & Fitch continue to be subjects of interest and discussion.