Perhaps the last Hollywood blockbuster paycheck wasn’t enough, or maybe it’s the thrill of chance, whatever their reasons, a number of actors use their talents not only for behind the camera but also at the world’s poker tables.
George Clooney’s relationship with casinos didn’t end at Ocean’s 13, the suave actor has played pker in tournaments all over the world and turned gambling into a business when in 2007 he invested personal funds in Las Ramblas—a $3 billion Las Vegas resort.
Ben Affleck is well known for his poker skills and is considered one of Hollywood’s best. In June 2004, he beat out 90 poker players in the Commerce Casino’s California State Poker Championship, including professional player Stan Goldstein, who finished 2nd. Affleck won $356,400 in that event and $25,000 in the 2005 World Poker Tour (WPT) Championship. Tobey Maguire was one of his victims, but don’t be fooled, the actor used his spidey sense to make a comeback and has won more than a quarter of a million dollars in tournaments around the country.
Academy award nominated Jennifer Tilly has all but left the movie scene and is possibly better known for the World Series of Poker Ladies’ bracelet that she wears and Shannon Elizabeth once known for her role in American Pie, found a second career in poker, which she now plays professionally. Annie Duke is another familiar face on our television screens. You might have seen her in The Apprentice but it would have been her outstanding performances on the poker table that earned her true fame. Duke is said to have won the biggest pot ever paid to a female poker player – $2million.
In fact, it would appear people at all levels of society are looking at ways to subsidize their income. From playing on jackgold.com to entering poker tournaments. But it’s not always a winning streak. Charles Barkley is no longer welcome at a number of casinos due to outstanding debts and decorated music legend Gladys Knight has had her hand at baccarat – something which turned into an addiction for more than 10 years of her life.
If you decide to take your poker to the next level, remember there’s as much luck as there is skill involved – these aren’t Hollywood’s best actors for nothing!
