The glitz of Hollywood, the roar of the stadium, the sold-out concert halls – these are the familiar stages for the world’s most famous. Yet, when the spotlight fades, many A-listers aren’t just unwinding; they’re engaging in thrilling showdowns at the poker table. Surprisingly, some of the biggest names in entertainment and sports aren’t just playing for fun; they’re playing to win, and often, raking in serious cash.
Poker holds a unique appeal for celebrities of all varieties, offering a rare space where the masks can come off, and true skill, strategy, and nerve are all that matter. As one source aptly puts it, poker is a “great class equaliser,” breaking down barriers and allowing people from all walks of life to “commune and chew the fat.” Perhaps the green felt is the only place they can truly exist without constant scrutiny, finding genuine challenge and camaraderie among peers and professionals alike. From actors and athletes to musicians and TV personalities, the world of high-stakes poker is surprisingly star-studded.
In this deep dive, we’re pulling back the curtain on 14 incredible celebrities who aren’t just dabbling in poker, but genuinely crushing it. We’ve got cinematic titans, record-breaking athletes, and beloved TV personalities who have not only held their own against seasoned pros but have also claimed significant victories and earnings. Get ready to be surprised as we unveil the first seven of these poker powerhouses, detailing their journeys, strategies, and the impressive mark they’ve made on the game.
1. **Tobey Maguire**While “Spider-Man” might be the first thought when Tobey Maguire’s name comes up, in the poker world, his reputation is far more formidable, even cutthroat. This cinematic titan isn’t just a casual player; he’s renowned for organizing and dominating some of Hollywood’s highest-stakes underground cash games. His earnings are estimated to soar between an astounding $30 million to $40 million, and his intense persona was famously depicted as Player X in the film “Molly’s Game,” a character widely confirmed to be based on Maguire.
Maguire’s journey into poker began around 2004 when he started playing tournament poker and even sought training from poker expert Daniel Negreanu. His dedication quickly paid off, as he placed highly in several competitions, including the prestigious World Series of Poker Main Event, where he made memorable appearances on ESPN’s broadcasts in 2005, 2006, and 2007. These early successes were just a prelude to his legendary involvement in Molly Bloom’s infamous high-stakes poker games, held at The Viper Room, where he regularly faced off against fellow Hollywood heavyweights like Leonardo DiCaprio and Ben Affleck.
Sources confirm that Maguire consistently “crushed those high-stakes private games,” a trend he reportedly continues to this day, albeit more infrequently. His commitment to the game was so intense that he reportedly refused to play without a specialized Shuffle Master machine. Considered by many to be “probably one of the highest-grossing poker players among Hollywood actors,” Tobey Maguire truly exemplifies how a celebrity can transition from the silver screen to becoming a genuine force at the poker table, earning a legendary status far beyond his acting accolades.
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2. **Victoria Coren Mitchell**From the quick-witted host of the British quiz show “Only Connect” to a formidable presence at the poker table, Victoria Coren Mitchell’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. She isn’t just a player; she’s a record-breaker, earning the distinction of being the first woman to win a European Poker Tour (EPT) event. As if that weren’t impressive enough, she stands as one of only three players in history to secure two live EPT Main Event titles, cementing her place in poker history with career live earnings in excess of $2.5 million.
Victoria’s commitment to poker spans her entire adult life, making her a long-standing fixture on the UK poker circuit long before her widespread TV fame. Before marrying “The Peep Show’s” David Mitchell and later taking a step back from the felt to start a family, she could regularly be found grinding cash games and competing in major tournament series at London’s Vic poker room. Her deep understanding of the game and tactical brilliance earned her a reputation as “one of the smartest poker players” on the scene.
Her initial breakthrough came in 2004, when she secured approximately £14,000 for a second-place finish in a £200 Pot Limit Hold’em Tournament at the European Poker Championships in London. This significant performance was swiftly followed by a victory one month later on the Channel 4 late-night poker show, “Celebrity Poker Club.” While family life has meant a reduced presence, she proved her enduring skill with a semi-deep run at EPT Monte Carlo in 2022, reminding everyone that her poker prowess remains sharp, making her a true icon of celebrity poker.
3. **Jennifer Tilly**For many, Jennifer Tilly is instantly recognizable for her distinctive voice and Academy Award-nominated acting career, but in the world of poker, she has transcended her Hollywood persona to become a genuine gambling legend. It’s often said that she’s “more recognized as a poker player as opposed to an actress” these days, a testament to her dedication and skill on the felt. Tilly has been a consistent presence in high-stakes cash games and tournaments for over two decades, accumulating more than $1 million in career live tournament earnings.
Her crowning achievement came in 2005 when she secured a coveted World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet for her victory in the Ladies No-Limit Texas Hold’em event, making her “the first celebrity ever to win a World Series tournament.” Beyond this historic win, she has also triumphed at a WPT Ladies Night Invitational and a Bellagio Cup, consistently proving her mettle. Jennifer is a regular on televised poker shows like “High Stakes Poker,” “Poker After Dark,” and “Poker Night in America,” where she captivates audiences with her aggressive approach and famously fun table talk.
Tilly’s passion for poker was initially sparked by a thoughtful gift from her father: a video poker game called “World Series of Poker.” This early exposure blossomed into a profound commitment, especially after achieving success in Hollywood. Her personal life also intertwines with her poker career, as she is in a long-term relationship with professional poker player Phil Laak, who also doubles as her coach. Her contributions and consistent performance led to a nomination for PokerListings’ Spirit of Poker Living Legend Award in 2014, solidifying her status as a respected and beloved figure in the poker community.
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4. **Gabe Kaplan**Fans of classic television will instantly recognize Gabe Kaplan as the star of the beloved 1970s sitcom “Welcome Back, Kotter,” but his influence extends far beyond the classroom. For three decades, Kaplan transitioned into a solid professional poker player, a career that saw him accumulate more than $2 million in documented tournament earnings. His deep understanding of the game also positioned him as a longtime, respected commentator on the iconic “High Stakes Poker” show, sharing his insights with a global audience.
Kaplan’s poker journey is marked by significant achievements, including an impressive second-place finish at the World Series of Poker $5,000 Limit Hold’em event in 2005. This result highlights his skill and strategic depth in a highly competitive field, proving he was not just a celebrity dabbling in a hobby, but a formidable opponent capable of challenging the best. His calm demeanor and sharp analytical mind, honed both on the set and at the felt, made him a natural fit for both playing and commentating on the game.
His transition from sitcom star to serious poker pro and commentator is a testament to the diverse appeal of poker and the intellectual challenge it offers. Kaplan’s ability to remain at the top of his game for such an extended period speaks volumes about his consistency and dedication. He represents a bridge between generations of poker enthusiasts, inspiring many to see that intelligence and wit honed in one field can be successfully applied to another.
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5. **Rick Salomon**Rick Salomon might be a name often linked to high-profile relationships and tabloid headlines, but within the poker community, he is celebrated for an entirely different reason: his astounding success at the high-stakes tables. He holds the distinct reputation of being “the celebrity who has won the most money playing live tournaments,” with career earnings now exceeding an incredible $9.9 million.
Salomon’s poker career highlights are dominated by his remarkable performances in the coveted $1 million buy-in Big One for One Drop tournament, where he made the final table on two separate occasions. In 2014, he finished an impressive fourth, taking home $2.8 million, and he surpassed that achievement with a third-place finish in a subsequent edition, netting $3.3 million. These results are particularly noteworthy given the caliber of competition in such high-buy-in events, prompting the observation that “most of his earnings came from those three cashes, but they were tough tournaments, so he played well.”
Beyond these monumental cashes, Salomon has also demonstrated his deep tournament prowess by running deep in the 2006 WSOP Main Event, finishing 196th, and narrowly missing a final table appearance at the Season 9 WPT World Championship at the Bellagio, where he placed ninth. Now primarily identified as a professional poker player, Rick Salomon embodies the journey from celebrity to serious contender, proving that an affinity for high-stakes living can translate directly into extraordinary success on the felt, making him a true force to be reckoned with.
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6. **James Woods**The Emmy Award-winning and Academy Award-nominated actor James Woods is a familiar face across screens, known for his intense performances and, more recently, his voice work in “Family Guy” episodes. But away from the cameras, Woods channels that same intensity into the game of poker, where he’s carved out a reputation as “the highest profile celebrity grinder in the business.” With over $410,000 in career live earnings, much of which comes from his expertise in mixed game variants, Woods is far from a casual observer.
Woods is a dedicated mainstay of the World Series of Poker (WSOP) and frequently engages in cash game action at the Commerce Casino. Unlike many celebrities who make fleeting appearances at major events, Woods is often found “duelling with his fans in the cash game area at any time night or day,” showcasing a genuine and enduring passion for the game. His commitment is evident in his frequent social media presence, where he openly expresses his love for poker and interacts with professional players, further cementing his authenticity in the community.
His impressive tournament results include deep runs in several WSOP events, such as an eighth-place finish in a 2021 WSOP event. He also famously came agonizingly close to securing a WSOP bracelet in 2018, finishing fifth in the $1,500 Dealers Choice Six-Handed event. James Woods truly embodies the spirit of a dedicated poker player, proving that celebrity status doesn’t diminish the grind; rather, it provides a platform for him to pursue his genuine passion with skill and unwavering commitment.
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7. **Ben Affleck**Ben Affleck, the multi-talented Hollywood actor, director, producer, and writer, known for blockbuster films like “Batman” and “Gone Girl,” also possesses a quietly formidable talent at the poker table. Unlike some celebrities who court attention, Affleck is noted for his “unassuming manner” when playing, appearing “right at home” on the felt. This composure, combined with a sharp strategic mind, has allowed him to make deep runs in numerous tournaments, solidifying his reputation as “one of the best celebrity poker players.”
Affleck’s poker journey includes an impressive victory at the 2004 California State Poker Tournament, where he took home a whopping $356,000. He openly attributed this success, and his improved skills, to one-on-one lessons from renowned poker pros Annie Duke and Amir Vahedi, demonstrating a genuine commitment to honing his craft. His love for the game extends beyond personal play; in 2020, he famously staged a celebrity poker game that successfully generated $1.75 million for food banks, with participants like Bryan Cranston and Adam Sandler paying $10,000 to enter, showcasing his ability to blend passion with philanthropy.
Affleck also reportedly participated in Molly Bloom’s infamous high-stakes private games alongside his buddy Matt Damon and Tobey Maguire. While some accounts suggest he was once banned from casinos for counting cards in blackjack, a testament to his keen analytical mind, his poker prowess remains undisputed. With estimated earnings around half a million dollars in live tournaments, and a high ranking among male celebrity players, Ben Affleck’s quiet determination and strategic depth make him a standout figure, proving that even A-listers appreciate the intellectual challenge of the game.
Now, if you thought the first seven were surprising, hold onto your hats! We’re diving even deeper into the star-studded world of high-stakes poker, revealing another seven incredible celebrities who are not just dabbling, but truly crushing it on the felt. Get ready for more jaw-dropping stories of athletic legends, comedic giants, and Hollywood heartthrobs who trade their familiar stages for the thrill of the cards.
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8. **Neymar Jr.**When you hear the name Neymar Jr., you probably picture a dazzling Brazilian soccer star, weaving through defenders with unparalleled skill. But believe it or not, this global icon has a passion that extends far beyond the football pitch: professional poker! He’s not just a casual player, either; Neymar Jr. has openly stated his ambition to become a professional poker player once he hangs up his boots, a testament to his deep commitment to the game.
Neymar serves as a cultural ambassador for the online site PokerStars, showcasing his involvement isn’t just for show. While his tournament results might be limited compared to seasoned pros, his true dedication shines through in his active presence around the tables. He’s often seen supporting fellow professional players like Bruno Politano and Felipe Ramos, demonstrating a genuine love for the community and the strategic intricacies of the game, rather than just its glitz.
His journey into high-stakes poker isn’t without its dramatic moments, either. In a widely reported event in March 2023, Neymar Jr. reportedly lost a staggering €1 million in just one hour playing online. While a tough beat for anyone, this incident vividly illustrates the caliber of games he’s involved in and his willingness to compete at the very highest levels, proving he’s not afraid to put his money where his chips are. He’s also been spotted making appearances at the WSOP and EPT Barcelona, further solidifying his place in the poker world.
Interestingly, his active participation sets him apart from other football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, who primarily featured in pre-arranged digital media promotions for poker rooms. Neymar Jr.’s consistent, hands-on engagement clearly shows his authentic enthusiasm for the game, establishing him as a true force on the felt, even while at the peak of his athletic career.
9. **Michael Phelps**Speaking of Olympic legends, did you know that the most decorated Olympian of all time, Michael Phelps, is also quite the shark at the poker table? With an incredible 28 medals, 23 of them gold, Phelps is often dubbed the “Phil Ivey of the Olympics.” This born winner brings the same relentless drive and competitive spirit from the swimming pool directly to the green felt, making him a formidable opponent.
Phelps’s journey into the world of poker began quite organically when he shared a house in Baltimore with professional poker player Jeff Gross. Gross himself has gone on record, telling Card Player magazine that “Mike is easily one of the best celebrity poker players around.” This early mentorship and immersion in the game undoubtedly honed Phelps’s skills, giving him a solid foundation in poker strategy.
Having retired from professional swimming, it’s very possible we’ll see even more of Phelps gracing the poker tables in the coming years, fully channeling his competitive energy into this new arena. He has already been spotted competing in tournaments in the Bahamas and making appearances at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas. His best score to date was an impressive fifth-place finish in a $1,570 No-Limit Hold’em event with 187 entrants at the 2008 Caesars Palace Classic.
Phelps’s natural competitive drive and strategic mind, honed through years of elite athletic competition, translate perfectly to the poker table. His ability to perform under pressure and make calculated decisions ensures that when he sits down to play, he’s not just having fun, but truly aiming to win, solidifying his reputation as a surprisingly skilled poker player.
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10. **Kevin Hart**From Hollywood blockbusters to sold-out stand-up specials, Kevin Hart is a global comedic sensation. But prepare to be amazed, because this entertainment powerhouse is also a serious player in the high-stakes poker scene! He truly surprised everyone when he first appeared at a live poker event in the Bahamas in January, showing he’s not just about cracking jokes, but about crushing chips too.
It wasn’t a one-off gig either; Hart quickly returned to the tables in Monte Carlo, where he announced an exciting partnership with PokerStars, becoming one of their prominent ambassadors. Hart, known for his mission to “unite the world with laughter,” sees the poker community as a perfect example of how people from all cultures can co-exist and have fun, embracing the game’s universal appeal.
Hart is no stranger to the biggest games, having played in the exclusive Dan Bilzerian home game and regularly mixing it up with the high rollers on the world circuit. He’s fearlessly taken on some seriously steep buy-ins, including the $100k Super High Roller at the 2017 PokerStars Championship in the Bahamas and an astounding $300k to participate in the Super High Roller Bowl in Las Vegas. In that latter event, he even famously eliminated the 16-time WSOP bracelet winner Phil “The Poker Brat” Hellmuth on Day 1!
With sponsorship deals from both partypoker and PokerStars, Hart always arrives at the table prepared with not just his sharp card skills, but also his signature wisecracks and infectious energy. He creates an unforgettable session full of enthusiasm, all while being intensely serious about the game, proving that his favorite, Texas Hold’em, is truly a challenge he embraces wholeheartedly.
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11. **Aaron Paul**Alright, ‘Breaking Bad’ fans, listen up! Aaron Paul, forever iconic as Jesse Pinkman, is another Hollywood heavyweight who loves to bust a flush and stack chips at the poker table. While his on-screen counterpart might have been a bit chaotic, Aaron himself brings a surprisingly composed and strategic approach to the game, quickly establishing himself as a formidable presence.
His commitment to poker moved up a significant notch when Global Poker League (GPL) Team Manager Maria Ho successfully convinced him to join the LA Sunset. Not only did Paul lend his celebrity status to the premier league, but he also proved his mettle by winning both matches he played, showcasing a dedication to the game that was truly unheard of from celebrities in previous years.
Beyond the GPL, Aaron Paul has popped up in a high-profile poker advert where he faced off against football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, further cementing his connection to the poker world. He’s also made appearances at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) and live events in the Bahamas, regularly immersing himself in the vibrant atmosphere of major poker tournaments.
While he might humbly admit to not having had massive luck at the tables just yet, Aaron clearly enjoys playing poker and is renowned for being much friendlier and more courteous than his fiery on-screen character. He even managed to reach Day 2 of the 2015 WSOP Main Event, which is an impressive feat for any player, let alone a busy actor, underlining his genuine passion and developing skill for the game.
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12. **Matt Damon**You know him from the intense Bourne movies, the suave Ocean’s Eleven crew, and his captivating dramatic performances. But did you know Matt Damon, Hollywood’s beloved charismatic leading man, also has a quiet and formidable talent for poker? Often playing away from the glaring public eye, Damon’s journey into the poker world is as compelling as his filmography, especially given his iconic role in the cult classic “Rounders.”
Damon’s deep dive into poker was initially sparked by his preparation for that very film, “Rounders,” where he portrayed Mike McDermott, a grinder with dreams of Vegas. To truly understand the role, he reportedly spent $25,000 to participate in a real poker tournament and, alongside co-star Edward Norton, even circuited the LA poker scene playing low-stakes cash games and live tournaments. This commitment truly illustrates how his love for the game blossomed from professional necessity into a genuine passion.
Like his buddy Ben Affleck and Tobey Maguire, Damon famously participated in the infamous “Molly’s Game” high-stakes cash games, putting his honed skills to the ultimate test against Hollywood’s elite. However, unlike some celebrities who seek the spotlight, Matt Damon has admitted that he actually prefers playing most of his poker games in private settings, meticulously away from the public’s view, so he can truly savor every moment and focus on the strategic challenge.
Despite his preference for discretion, Damon has still made notable appearances, including regular visits to the World Series of Poker (WSOP). He even achieved some impressive successes during the 2019 World Series of Poker events, further cementing his reputation not just as an actor, but as a genuinely capable and respected poker player who appreciates the intellectual rigor of the game.
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13. **Shannon Elizabeth**Ah, Shannon Elizabeth! For many, she’s instantly recognizable from her iconic roles in films like “American Pie,” “Scary Movie,” and “Tomcats,” cementing her status as a sex symbol of the 1990s and 2000s. But beneath the glamorous Hollywood exterior lies a serious passion for poker, a “second career” as she herself declared in 2006, that has seen her truly make a name for herself on the felt.
Shannon was incredibly dedicated to her newfound calling, frequently traveling to Las Vegas to play poker with some of the finest players in the game. Her commitment paid off handsomely, as she reached the semi-final of the prestigious NBC Heads-Up Poker Championship in 2007, a testament to her sharp card skills and strategic gameplay against tough competition.
Beyond personal accolades, Elizabeth has also used her poker prowess for good. In 2010, she secured an impressive second-place finish in the $5,000 Ante Up for Africa charity event, walking away with a $79,000 payoff. This significant earning was particularly commendable, given her role in running the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation, an organization dedicated to animal rescue and conservation, showcasing her ability to blend passion with philanthropy.
Although it appears that she doesn’t play as much these days, with her final actual in-the-money poker performance dating back to 2013, Shannon Elizabeth undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the poker world. Her journey from Hollywood star to a prominent and successful poker player demonstrates that she’s far from just a casual hobbyist and proved she’s a force not to be taken lightly.
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14. **Jason Alexander**After achieving acting immortality as the iconic George Costanza on “Seinfeld,” Jason Alexander found a new stage for his sharp wits: the poker table! Unlike his notoriously unlucky and often bumbling on-screen character, Alexander showcases some serious strategic acumen during his poker performances, proving he’s much more than just a talented actor.
Jason was a frequent and beloved fixture on American televised poker in the early 2000s, entertaining audiences with his play and personality. One of his most notable triumphs came when he took down the “Celebrity Poker Showdown Championship” in Season 8, securing an incredible $500,000 for a charity of his choice. This victory wasn’t just a win for him, but a massive boost for a worthy cause.
His commitment to combining his passion for poker with philanthropy continues to this day. Alexander still regularly participates in private games and, impressively, runs an annual celebrity poker tournament that has been going strong for over two decades! He also won the 2020 King’s Celebrity Poker Challenge, helping to raise another $125,000 for World Central Kitchen, further highlighting his charitable spirit.
While his total wins might not be as high as some of the professional poker players on our list, Jason Alexander’s consistent engagement, notable tournament victories, and enduring dedication to both playing and hosting charity poker events firmly establish him as a respected figure. He beautifully embodies the spirit of a celebrity who loves the game, proving that intelligence and wit can truly shine on the felt.
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And there you have it! From the fast lanes of international soccer to the Olympic swimming pool, from the stand-up stage to the dramatic world of Hollywood, these 14 celebrities prove that talent and a killer instinct aren’t confined to a single arena. They’ve not only embraced the intellectual challenge and thrilling competition of poker but have genuinely excelled, often surprising us all with their strategic prowess and impressive winnings. The green felt truly is a melting pot where masks come off, and true skill takes center stage, making these stars not just famous, but genuinely formidable at the poker table. What a wild ride, right?
