Poker is a game of skill and chance that appeals to many celebrities. As the popularity of poker has grown, so too have the number of famous names that choose to hit the tables when they can. Some of these celebrities use their fame to promote the game and gain an edge at the tables while others play professionally, demonstrating impressive skills and often winning big.
It is not unusual to see stars from the world of television and film seated at the poker table. Some of these celebrity players have risen to prominence during the poker boom era, while others are well-known to fans thanks to their appearances on popular poker shows and high-stakes live events.
Actor Matt Damon is a top name on the list of celebrities who are professional poker players. He is most known for his acting roles in Good Will Hunting and other movies, but he has also been a regular on poker TV shows and tournaments. He has competed in the World Series of Poker No-Limit Hold’em and has won a few events in his career. In the 2011 World Poker Finals, he finished 45th and earned $540.
Jennifer Tilly is another well-known actress who has competed in a number of major poker events and has done pretty well in the process. She has won a few bracelets in her career, although she does not have the same level of success as other celebrity poker players on this list.
Tobey Maguire is a popular movie star who is also one of the best celebrity poker players. His role as Spider-Man brought him to the forefront of Hollywood and made him a big name in the entertainment scene. However, his acting career is not his only talent and he has been a regular at the poker tables since 1998.
A few members of the Golden State Warriors NBA basketball team have taken to the tables in their spare time, playing heads-up poker with Phil Helmuth and others. The team has also played in tournaments that benefit charity.
The most well-known poker celebrity is undoubtedly Phil Hellmuth. He has won 15 WSOP bracelets and has made a career out of appearing on televised poker events. He has his detractors, but he is still a force to be reckoned with at the poker tables.