It's interesting to note that the most recognized poker players might not always be the top competitors. However, many high-profile personalities, including actors, musicians, and social media influencers, enjoy getting in on the action.
Their level of success may vary, but poker continues to captivate many players, including celebrities .
from athletes to public figures. Discover their notable achievements and the impact they've had on the world of poker.
The Most Iconic Poker Players in History — Celebrities from Hollywood
While many of the historical poker legends may not be top-tier players, the allure of the game has attracted numerous celebrated figures from various fields.
Numerous well-known individuals relish the challenge of poker, whether they are entertainers, music stars, or online influencers.
Their level of success may vary, but poker continues to captivate many players, including celebrities .
Let's kick off with some beloved personalities whose fame stems as much from their performances in front of the camera as from their time spent at the poker table.
1 – Ben Affleck
This actor and director is a frequent participant at poker games. In 2004, he triumphed in the California State Poker Championship held at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, taking home an impressive $356,400.
That was a significant milestone for him, yet depending on one's perspective, that achievement might come in third place after his two Oscars.
Affleck received the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay in 1997 for Good Will Hunting and won Best Picture in 2012 for his direction in Argo. As a leading man, his roles also include portraying Batman, stirring excitement in the poker world when he’s spotted at a table.
He even brought his passion for poker to cinema with the 2013 film Runner, Runner, where he starred alongside Justin Timberlake.
Despite facing mostly negative reviews, the film earned $63 million at the box office, successfully doubling its $30 million production budget.
- Profession: Actor, director, and screenwriter
- Achievements: Two Oscar wins
- Significant in poker: Champion of the California State Poker Championship
- Interesting tidbit: Poker icon Johnny Chan once referred to Affleck as the finest 'amateur' player he had ever faced.
2 – Matt Damon
Matt Damon, a close friend of Ben Affleck, has also made his mark on the poker scene. After co-writing Good Will Hunting with Affleck, he became a hugely popular figure in Hollywood.
His impressive filmography includes classics like Saving Private Ryan, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and The Martian, among others.
Poker enthusiasts will remember him for his portrayal of Mike McDermott in the cult classic Rounders, which became a landmark film in the poker genre after its 1998 release.
He has participated in various World Series of Poker competitions and was knocked out of the 1998 Main Event by legendary poker player Doyle Brunson.
- Profession: Actor, producer, and screenwriter
- Notable accolades: Five Academy Award nominations, including a win with Affleck for Good Will Hunting in 1998.
- Noteworthy: A standout moment in Rounders features Damon going head-to-head against poker legend Johnny Chan.
3 – Edward Norton
Speaking of Rounders, Damon's co-star Edward Norton seems to have an even greater passion for poker. Brilliant as Worm in the film, Norton has also made appearances in the World Series of Poker.
This famous Hollywood actor remains a frequent presence at the poker tables. His extensive filmography includes hits like American History X, The Illusionist, Red Dragon, Primal Fear, and Birdman.
Describing his experience after being eliminated from the 1998 WSOP Main Event, he remarked, 'It’s a complex game that involves many layers, both in strategy and mathematics. While luck may play a role in individual hands, the truly skilled players consistently come out on top over time.'
- Occupation: Actor, filmmaker
- Achievements: Two Golden Globe awards
| Noteworthy: Actively supports environmental and humanitarian initiatives. |
4 – Toby Maguire
Tobey Maguire, known for his role as Spider-Man and as jockey Red Pollard in Seabiscuit, brings impressive skills to the poker table. It's rumored that he received coaching from Daniel Negreanu, a legendary figure in the poker world.
Maguire, alongside Affleck, is believed to have participated in high-stakes cash games hosted by Molly Bloom during the 2000s, which inspired her popular book and subsequent film Molly’s Game.
In 2007, he secured $39,445 in the WSOP Main Event. However, his most significant success came at the $2,080 Phil Hellmuth Invitational at Hollywood Park, netting him $95,480.
The success of Maguire's Spider-Man franchise also cannot be overlooked, as it grossed over $2.5 billion worldwide. Some insiders even suggest he is Hollywood's best poker player.
- Occupation: Actor, producer
- Achievements: Allegedly secured hundreds of thousands of dollars from Hollywood cash games.
- Noteworthy: Rumored to be Player X in the film Molly’s Game.
5 – Leonardo DiCaprio
Another star believed to have been part of Molly's Game is the acclaimed actor Leonardo DiCaprio. While his poker abilities are not as widely discussed as his celebrated film career, his passion for the game is well-known in Hollywood.
Recognized for his unforgettable performances in movies like Titanic, The Wolf of Wall Street, and his Oscar-winning role in The Revenant, DiCaprio's allure extends to the poker scene. He is often regarded as one of the most intriguing poker players by both status and reputation. Chris Moneymaker, who made history by winning the World Series of Poker as an amateur in 2003, once reminisced about a striking encounter at a lavish Hollywood event.
While engaging with someone who expressed admiration for his work, Moneymaker turned to face Leonardo DiCaprio.
Achievements: Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role
- Occupation: Actor, producer
- Noteworthy: Although Leonardo DiCaprio lacks any documented tournament victories on Hendon Mob, he is famously known for being a familiar face in the high-stakes private poker circles of Hollywood.
| A frequent competitor at the annual World Series of Poker, this comedian and actor holds a deep affection for the game. His acclaimed show, Everybody Loves Raymond, aired from 1996 to 2005, and he has made numerous appearances at WSOP events. |
6 – Ray Romano
“Participating in this event is always a thrill; it's both exciting and nerve-racking. Plus, it's the only tournament I participate in annually,” he stated. poker tournament series.
“Since it's the sole event I engage in, it carries significant weight for me. Once I’m out of this event, I have to wait an entire year before playing again, so I tend to be a bit cautious. Together with my friend who plays as well, we simply try to make it to Day 3.” told PokerGO at the WSOP in 2018.
Noteworthy: Once made it to Day 3 of the WSOP Main Event.
- Occupation: Actor, comedian
- Achievements: Three Emmy awards.
- This veteran actor possesses a profound love for poker that rivals that of any celebrity player. Renowned in Hollywood, his acting career spans back to the 1970s, and he has received two Oscar nominations and a Golden Globe award.
7 – James Woods
Fans of poker and gambling should not miss his portrayal in Casino, which delves into the media world of Las Vegas.
He partakes in cash games nearly every day in Los Angeles and frequently competes at the World Series of Poker, where he has accumulated over $400,000 in live tournament earnings.
Achievements: Golden Globe winner and two Oscar nominations.
- Occupation: Actor, producer
- Noteworthy: Achieved fifth place in the $1,500 WSOP Dealer’s Choice in 2018 for $23,686, and first place in the LA Poker Open $600 Limit Triple Stud in 2023 for $4,900 — James Woods enjoys participating in mixed game formats at various buy-in levels.
| Though she is celebrated as a talented actress, Jennifer Tilly has also made a name for herself as a prominent figure on poker television. In 2005, she captured a World Series of Poker title. |
8 – Jennifer Tilly
Tilly frequently appears on televised poker shows such as Poker Night in America and Poker After Dark. She and her long-term partner Phil Laak form a formidable poker couple. Ladies Championship for $158,625.
Recognized as one of the top players on this list, Tilly's lively and engaging personality makes her an enjoyable presence during tournaments.
Achievements: Holder of a WSOP bracelet and over $1 million in live tournament prizes.
- Occupation: Actress, poker player
- Noteworthy: Tilly’s father was also a renowned poker player and gambler. In 2005, she won the third World Poker Tour Ladies Invitational Tournament at the Bicycle Casino.
- The Most Renowned Poker Players Through the Ages — Athletes, Musicians, and Comedians
Now that we've explored iconic Hollywood poker celebrities, let's expand our focus to include athletes and creative individuals.
These are among the most notable poker players in history from the realms of sports, music, and comedy.
This global soccer superstar excels not only on the field but also at the poker table. Neymar has had notable successes in poker tournaments.
9 – Neymar Jr.
He achieved a sixth-place finish in a $1,400 side event at the Brazilian Series of Poker, earning him $21,072.
Additionally, Neymar has performed well in online poker and is a regular participant at Hustler Casino Live. He has shared that when he's not on the soccer pitch, he often occupies himself
Profession: Professional soccer player playing poker .
- Achievements: A multitude of championships and titles
- Noteworthy: His transfer to Paris Saint-Germain for €222 million made him the most expensive player in history.
| The legendary rock 'n' roll star not only rocked the world on stage but also enjoyed playing plenty of poker. Glenn Frey and Don Henley, both band leaders of the Eagles, were avid poker fans, playing for hours on tour. |
10 – The Eagles
Their poker games began in the early 1970s when they accompanied country singer Linda Ronstadt. She recalls Frey's skills at the poker table, calling him an Eagle 'shark'.
“Glenn was always more astute and better prepared than you’d expect,” she recalled.
888poker has compiled a list of the Top 16 Most Renowned Poker Players from around the globe. Check to see if any of your favorites made the cut! Los Angeles Times Can you identify these 16 Legendary Poker Players who gained fame worldwide?
16 Iconic Poker Players Across the Globe poker games continued for years.
- Occupation: Rock band, songwriters
- Most Renowned Poker Players Throughout History
| The most recognized names in poker may not be the top contenders in terms of skill. Nonetheless, many prominent figures, including actors, musicians, and online influencers, are drawn to the game. |
11 – Willie Nelson
Poker continues to captivate a multitude of fans, including individuals from various fields.
These players range from dedicated athletes to well-known public figures. Discover their accomplishments and their impact on the poker scene.
Nelson is usually the table shark ( poker term Most Renowned Poker Players Throughout History — Hollywood Stars
While some of the most celebrated poker players may not excel at playing the game, big-name celebrities are still eager to join in the fun.
- Many prominent personalities are keen to showcase their skills in poker, including actors, musicians, and popular online figures.
- Achievements: Many Grammy awards
- Let's start with some well-known stars who enjoy equal fame for their cinematic careers as they do for their poker talents.
12 – Kevin Hart
This actor and director is a familiar face at poker tables. In 2004, he took home the title at the California State Poker Championship, winning $356,400 at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles.
In recent years, Hart That victory was impressive, but if you consider his overall accomplishments, it might be overshadowed by his two Oscar awards.
- Occupation: Actor, comedian
- Affleck secured the Best Original Screenplay award in 1997 for Good Will Hunting and won Best Picture as a director in 2012 for Argo. A versatile star in various films, including a memorable portrayal as Batman, Affleck certainly makes headlines.
| Affleck even channeled his passion for poker into a cinematic role in the 2013 film Runner, Runner, where he starred alongside Justin Timberlake. |
13 – Brad Garrett
Although the movie was generally panned by critics, it performed well at the box office, earning $63 million, which was double its $30 million budget.
Occupation: Actor, director, screenwriter
Poker Achievement: Champion of the California State Poker Championship
- Occupation: Actor, comedian
| Interesting tidbit: Poker legend Johnny Chan once named Affleck as the best 'amateur' poker player he had ever faced. |
Matt Damon, a longtime friend of Ben Affleck, is equally familiar with the poker scene. After co-penning Good Will Hunting with Affleck, he skyrocketed to stardom, becoming one of Hollywood's most in-demand actors.
His impressive filmography features titles like Saving Private Ryan, The Talented Mr. Ripley, The Martian, among many others.
Poker enthusiasts may remember him best for his role as Mike McDermott in Rounders, which has become a classic in the poker film genre since its release in 1998.
Their level of success may vary, but
He has participated in several World Series of Poker events and notably faced elimination in the 1998 Main Event at the hands of poker great Doyle Brunson.
Occupation: Actor, producer, screenwriter
Notable Achievements: Five Academy Award nominations, winning an Oscar in 1998 alongside Affleck for Good Will Hunting.
- poker
- Noteworthy: A memorable duel with poker icon Johnny Chan from Rounders highlights his connection to the game.
- Speaking of Rounders, Damon's co-star was even more passionate about poker. The brilliant Edward Norton, who portrayed Worm, has also made appearances in the World Series of Poker.
1 – Ben Affleck
The celebrated Hollywood actor has remained a frequent player at poker tables. His impressive resume includes films like American History X, The Illusionist, Red Dragon, Primal Fear, and Birdman.
"It’s a complex game that involves a lot of levels, both mathematically and strategically,\" he remarked after his exit from the 1998 WSOP Main Event. \"While luck can play a role in individual hands, over time, the remarkably skilled players will dominate.\"
Achievements: Two Golden Globe awards
- Noteworthy: Actively involved in charitable and environmental efforts.
- Former Spider-Man and rider of Seabiscuit, Red Pollard is no stranger to the poker scene. Rumor has it that he learned the ropes from Daniel Negreanu, one of poker's all-time greats.
| Alongside Ben Affleck, he is also thought to be linked to the high-stakes games organized by Molly Bloom in the early 2000s—those games formed the core of her best-selling book and the film adaptation, Molly's Game. |
poker world
In 2007, Maguire performed well in the WSOP Main Event, earning $39,445. However, his most impressive win came at the $2,080 Phil Hellmuth Invitational in Hollywood Park, where he claimed a prize of $95,480.
Maguire's version of Spider-Man turned out to be a significant box office success, amassing over $2.5 billion in revenue. Some insiders believe he might just be the finest poker player in Hollywood.
Achievements: Believed to have accumulated hundreds of thousands of dollars from Hollywood cash games.
- Noteworthy: Allegedly, he is the mysterious 'Player X' featured in Molly’s Game.
- Another celebrity linked to Molly's Game poker circle is none other than Leonardo DiCaprio. While his poker credentials are less prominent than his illustrious acting career, DiCaprio's passion for poker remains known throughout Hollywood.
| Recognized for his unforgettable performances in classics like Titanic, The Wolf of Wall Street, and having earned an Oscar for The Revenant, DiCaprio’s enigmatic presence extends into the realm of poker as well. |
when he’s spotted at a table.
He is regarded as one of poker's most iconic players, not only for his status but also for his magnetic charm. Poker champion Chris Moneymaker, who famously triumphed in the 2003 World Series of Poker as an amateur, recounted a notable encounter at an exclusive Hollywood gathering.
"I'm a huge admirer of your work,\" someone said to him, and when Moneymaker turned around, he found himself face to face with Leonardo DiCaprio.