Hollywood movies frequently include actors portraying high-stakes gamblers. They often participate in games like roulette, blackjack and even poker, but is real-world gambling their thing? There’s a chance the response will shock you. Gambling is a popular pastime for many famous people, who often drop several thousand dollars in a single session.
These famous people are casual gamblers, not pros. Especially if prizes are at stake, they enjoy playing these games online at virtual casinos. While the vast majority donate their windfalls to good causes, others utilize their windfalls to fund even more gaming. Some well-known people you might run across at a casino are shown below.
Matt Damon
Aside from being a famous actor, Matt Damon is also a skilled player of poker and blackjack. His performance in the film Rounders served as a catalyst.
What he plans to do with his prize money remains a mystery. Damon is an avid gambler who has even entered tournaments. He likes to gamble. Thus, he frequently goes to the best-paying casinos. The payout percentages at these casinos are among the highest of any online gambling sites that CasinoReviewers rate. These days, any of the best payout online casinos will do, and they can all lead to some serious cash prizes if you’re lucky.
Paris Hilton
There is a high likelihood of running into Paris Hilton in Sin City. As you know, this is the gambling capital of the world, where casinos are more the norm than the exception. Hilton won thirty thousand dollars at the tables at the casino. She is also a fan of online casino games, making her a real-life celebrity you can meet and play with. It’s also common knowledge that Hilton regularly plays casino games in person and online.
Brad Pitt
Brad Pitt is another famous actor who enjoys gaming and casinos. He, like Matt Damon, got into gambling after starring in a movie about it (in this case, ‘Ocean’s 11’). The actor is a fan of card games like poker and blackjack. He also enjoys playing slots both in physical casinos and online. He attributes his enthusiasm for gambling to the thrill he feels while engaging in the activity, and he plans to indulge in this passion for as long as possible.
50 Cent
You want to avoid betting against 50 Cent. He wagered $2 million on Manny Pacquiao’s opponent and the San Francisco 49ers (in a match against the New York Giants). You already know he is a lucky player because he won these bets. He’s famous for his luck at the tables and reputation as one of the world’s most enthusiastic players.
George Clooney
Each of the Oceans films featured George Clooney as the lead character, and George Clooney has built a reputation as a high-rolling gambler on the international stage. His entire life has been spent in the casino, and he now regularly participates in many similar games in Hollywood. Molly’s Game is based on these events, and was a huge box-office success. Clooney’s love of gambling inspired him to build a casino on the famous Las Vegas strip. Ultimately, this endeavor was fruitless, and the business was never built.
Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, the greatest basketball player of all time, also has a passion for the gambling world. He often boasted about his huge wins in craps and poker, but this in no way suggests that he never lost.
The NBA launched an investigation when rumors spread that Michael Jordan was involved in sports betting. After three consecutive victories, the star player reportedly retired due to this probe. But it’s essential to keep in mind that the investigations led to his dismissal.
John Daly
Professional golfer John Daly has battled serious health issues without letting them derail his career. John Daly is a well-known gambler who has not had much luck in the casinos. It is estimated that he has lost roughly $90 million to gambling throughout his lifetime. This could be why, despite his prosperous career in golf, his wealth is estimated to be only around $2 million.
Tobey Maguire
Tobey Maguire is an accomplished actor who rose to fame thanks to his portrayal of Peter Parker/Spider-Man. He is close to actor and fellow gambler Matt Damon. Tobey entered the professional poker scene in 2004 and has since played in multiple World Series of Poker Main Event final tables. One of the top poker players in the world, Canadian Daniel Negreanu, served as his mentor.
Ben Affleck
Aside from being a famous actor and Oscar winner, Ben Affleck is also a highly skilled poker player. It looks like somebody’s putting their acting chops to good use; after all, who better than an actor to have a rock-solid poker face?
Additionally, he has won a few events, the largest of which netted him roughly $800,000.
Jennifer Tilly
Jennifer Tilly is well-known not only as a professional poker player but also for her comedic timing and legendary performances in Hollywood films. Inheriting a love of gambling from her father, a gambler and poker player, Jennifer has been interested in the game since she was a young girl. Her boyfriend in Hollywood taught her the ropes.
In 2005, she took first place at the World Poker Tour’s third annual Ladies Invitational Tournament. She has more than a million dollars in poker winnings as of 2019.
Charles Barkley
Charles Barkley should be mentioned as a basketball star who likes gambling. The ex-player is a frequent visitor to Las Vegas’s casinos. After leaving the NBA, Charles claims to have gambled away more than $10 million.
Conclusion
Gambling, as you can see, is not exclusive to the plebeians. Even famous people enjoy this and participate frequently. Keep in mind that these are just a few examples of well-known gamblers. The vast majority of prominent people regularly partake in gambling activities.
