In the glamorous world of entertainment red carpets and paparazzi flashes dominate, but it’s no secret that celebrities often love the thrill and allure of casinos. From the iconic Frank Sinatra and his legendary Rat Pack to modern-day stars like Ben Affleck and Paris Hilton, the glitz of casinos has captivated the rich and famous for decades. Some celebrities may indulge in a casual night out at the tables or slot machines, but others develop a genuine interest, immersing themselves in the gambling realm. The rise of online casinos has further piqued their curiosity, leading to a surge in questions about online casino promotions and the celebrity influence on this rapidly growing industry.
1. Matt Damon
The Hollywood A-lister and household name also turns out to be an accomplished poker and blackjack player. It all began with his iconic role in the movie “Rounders,” where he delved deep into the world of high-stakes gambling. To portray his character with authenticity, Damon sought the guidance of the legendary Johnny Chan, immersing himself in the art of poker. As a result, he honed his skills and emerged as one of the top players in the global poker scene. Even today, Damon continues to indulge his passion for the game, frequently participating in tournaments and choosing reputable casinos known for their generous payouts. For those seeking thrilling online gambling experiences, exploring the best payout online casinos is highly recommended, as they offer substantial winning potential, provided luck is on your side.
2. Magnus Carlsen
Known to many as maybe the best professional Chess player of all time, the five-time World Chess Champion shocked the public in July 2022 after deciding not to defend the title he had held for a decade. Instead, Carlsen prepared for a trip to the sunny Mediterranean coast while the other chess masters fought it out for the title. In this year’s EPT Monte Carlo €5,300 Main Event Carlsen landed an impressive 63 place out of 1,098 entries, proving that his analytical genius is far from limited to a 64-square grid. Carlsen has remained humble, however, and seems to enjoy the poker experience more than approaching the game with a desire to be a master. “I don’t like to take a lot of pride in my poker. So I’m trying to, you know, learn a little bit, so it doesn’t bother me that much. But if I do something really stupid, then that’s to be expected. So that’s fine.”
3. Frank Sinatra
The legendary entertainer and “Chairman of the Board”, had a notable passion for gambling that matched his larger-than-life persona. Sinatra’s fascination with casinos and gambling was well-documented, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s, when he was a prominent member of the iconic Rat Pack. Renowned for his love of the Las Vegas Strip, Sinatra often played high-stakes games of blackjack and craps, adding to the allure of Sin City. In fact, In 1967, his gambling debt ran up to $500,000 at the Sands one night.
4. Paris Hilton
In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, where gambling reigns supreme, it is not uncommon to encounter Paris Hilton indulging in a favorite pastime. With a keen interest in casino games, Hilton has enjoyed notable success, once walking away with a remarkable $30,000 from her casino endeavors. Moreover, she is equally comfortable playing both online and offline casino games, adding an exciting element for fans who may find themselves playing alongside the famous socialite.
5. Brad Pitt
Similar to Matt Damon, this actor’s journey into the world of gambling began during his preparation for the massive hit movie “Ocean’s 11”. As he delved into the role, he discovered a newfound passion for gambling, particularly poker, blackjack, and even the thrill of spinning the reels on slot machines, be it online or in physical casinos. Pitt marvels at the sheer excitement of the games and intends to continue pursuing his newfound interest for as long as possible.
6. 50 Cent
Renowned rapper & actor 50 Cent is clearly not one to shy away from high-stakes gambling or long-term beefs (this time even with collaborator The Game). Known for placing a wager of an outrageous $2 million on Floyd Mayweather in his fight with Manny Pacquiao. With a formidable track record of winning these wagers, 50 Cent has earned a reputation as a passionate and fortunate player, adding an extra layer of intrigue to his celebrity persona.
7. Ben Affleck
Ben is not only a high-school buddy of Matt Damon but a longtime lover of gambling. In fact, Ben Affleck even got accused of counting cards at the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel because he was so good at blackjack. In a town with his then-wife Jennifer Garner, security approached him about allegedly counting cards. It’s up to you the reader to decide it if was fair for him to get thrown out.
So next time you see the A-listers walking the red carpet, why not think about what secret hobbies we’re still to find out?
