Celebrities often lead glamorous lives filled with fame, fortune, good looks, and, sometimes, extraordinary luck at the casino tables.
In fact, many celebs have showcased their gambling skills most often at traditional brick-and-mortar casinos, but with the rise of online casinos and sports betting, there may be many more celebrities who gamble online than we know about!
If you want to test your skills at the card tables just like the celebs, online casinos and sportsbooks are offering more and more choices, odds, bonuses, games, and fun than ever before. According to expert Ciaran McEneaney, when it comes to gambling in Arizona, offshore betting sites are seen as some of the best options because they “tend to offer better deals and odds for local markets“. The same goes for other states that haven’t yet started licencing their own online casinos locally, like California, Texas, and Florida. So, if you fancy taking inspiration from these celebs, online offshore casinos are definitely worth a shot.
Just remember, however, it’s all about the enjoyment, not just the winning – but for these five famous faces, these monumental wins would have most definitely put a smile on their faces.
1. Ben Affleck
Oscar-winning actor Ben Affleck, who is renowned for his roles on screen is equally famous for his talent at the blackjack and poker tables. So impressive are his skills that he found himself banned from a casino for winning too much. Mr Jennnifer Lopez’s triumphs extend beyond Hollywood, with his victory at the California State Poker Championship in 2004, where he walked away with an impressive $356,400 prize.
2. Leonardo DiCaprio
Leo DiCaprio, known for his stellar performances in blockbuster films, is also a force to be reckoned with in the world of gambling. With reports of winning a jaw-dropping $8 million playing poker and an astonishing $25 million on slots, DiCaprio’s casino conquests rival his success on the silver screen.
3. Ellen
Ellen DeGeneres, the not-so-beloved-anymore talk show host has surprised many with her elite poker-playing abilities. In 2011, she showcased her talent at a charity poker tournament, securing herself a remarkable $1.3 million prize and showing that her abilities extend far beyond the television studio.
4. Patrick Bruel
As the first Frenchman to secure a World Series of Poker bracelet in 1998, Bruel more than proved his status as a poker legend and is said to have won over $1 million in his time. But, not content with his achievements on the felt, he’s also a significant shareholder in a major online casino site, further cementing his influence in the gambling world.
5. Jennifer Tilly
Bride of Chucky star and cult icon, Jennifer Tilly’s journey into the world of poker began in 1989, but it was during the Texas Hold’em craze of the 2000s. Teaming up with her husband, pro poker player Phil Laak, she achieved a remarkable feat by clinching victory at the 2005 No-Limit Texas Hold’em event, beating 600 competitors. Her largest single win is said to be $158,625.
Other Famous Celebrity Gamblers
In addition to these notable victories, other celebrities have also left their mark on the casino floor. How much they’ve won – or lost- however, is anyone’s guess.
50 Cent, the renowned rapper and savvy entrepreneur, is no stranger to the thrill of gambling. With claims of winning millions of dollars at casinos, he has established himself as a formidable player in the world of high-stakes gaming. His affinity for gambling even led to the creation of his own reality show centered around the theme of gambling, showcasing his love for the game on a broader platform.
Ashley Greene, best known for her role in the Twilight saga, may not fit the typical profile of a gambling enthusiast, but she’s proven to be quite the adept player. With several victories in celebrity poker tournaments under her belt, Greene has demonstrated her skill and competitiveness on the felt. Her participation in the esteemed World Series of Poker further solidifies her status as a respected player in the poker community.
Joining the ranks of celebrity gamblers is Matt Damon, a close friend and gambling companion of Ben Affleck. Damon is widely recognized for his proficiency in poker and has been a regular contender in high-stakes tournaments, showcasing his strategic prowess and love for the game.
Tobey Maguire has also made a name for himself in the world of celebrity poker. Despite some controversy surrounding his winnings, Maguire’s reputation as a skilled player remains undisputed, earning him respect among fellow enthusiasts.
Surprising many with his gambling acumen is Ray Romano, beloved for his role in the hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. Romano’s skill at the poker table is definitely not to be underestimated, as he frequents high-stakes games and has supposedly amassed significant winnings over the years, proving that he’s far from just a comedic talent.