As the world has changed and technology has undergone increasing amounts of innovation – and continues to do so – the online gambling industry has attracted many different entrepreneurs from all walks of life. The shift of gambling from traditional, brick-and-mortar casinos to the idea of virtual, online gambling worlds has created a whole new pool of opportunities, and entrepreneurs – both old and new – seem to have identified it and are ready to get involved.
Unsurprisingly, the allure of opportunity has attracted not only professional entrepreneurs but also some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. From Hollywood stars to sports superstars, celebrities are increasingly venturing into the business side of online gambling, either as owners, investors or partners in gaming companies and platforms.
Of course, the idea of celebrity investors, entrepreneurs, business owners and partners is nothing new – at least, in other industries as well as traditional casino environment. It’s no shock at all that the people and personalities with large amounts of funds and influence would be interested in getting financially involved in online casinos. Not only for the purpose of making money, but also because the casino industry as a whole (including online gambling) is shrouded in glitz and glamour, things that are very much associated with celebrities.
In this article, we’re going to shine a spotlight on these celebrity pioneers. We’re going to highlight their contributions to the online gambling industry and the positive impact that they bring to the table. We’re going to talk about a few celebrities who are at the helm of online gaming companies, celebrities who have embraced roles as strategic partners in these sorts of businesses and celebrities who are backing gaming startups. Let’s dive right in!
Different Roles Celebrities Have Taken in the Online Gambling Industry
As we mentioned, celebrities have assumed different roles in the online gambling industry, depending on their interests, skills and most important, financial capacity. Some people get involved with the hope of really running the business and being part of every step, while others are using the business as more of a financial venture.
Celebrities at the Helm of Online Gambling Companies
For some people, getting into a business is about actually having control over what it does, how it’s run and everything in between – it’s more than just a financial investment.
Here are a few of the most well-known celebs who have started dabbling in the world of online casinos and gambling.
Leonardo DiCaprio
Leonardo DiCaprio is most well known for his roles in blockbuster films and for good reason – he’s been around the block a time or two and he’s been in the industry since he was a child. But he also has a keen interest in entrepreneurial ventures and is a savvy investor with specific interest in environmental sustainability.
In 2019, DiCaprio joined forces with Bobby Kotick, gaming industry veteran, to launch Earth Alliance. Earth Alliance is a charitable foundation that is focused on environmental conservation.
By means of Earth Alliance, DiCaprio has invested in several different eco-friendly gaming ventures, including online casinos that promote responsible gambling practices and support for environmental causes.
Ashton Kutcher
Other than being a stalwart in the Hollywood scene, having started out in acting as a teenager, Ashton Kutcher has also made a name for himself as a result of various entrepreneurial ventures. He’s most well-known for his investments in technology startups.
Kutcher’s companies, including several in the world of online gambling, have been incredibly successful. With a keen eye for innovation and disruption, Kutcher has positioned himself as a key player in the intersection of entertainment and online gambling and gaming.
Celebrities Who Have Embraced Their Role as Strategic Partners in Online Gambling Companies
Another way to get involved in the online gambling industry if you’re somebody with access to a lot of capital is to take a position as some kind of strategic partner. With sites like Black Lotus online casino attracting a huge number of players every day, there’s plenty of incentive to get in on the action.
Here are a few celebrities who have embraced their role as strategic partners in online gambling companies.
Floyd Mayweather Junior
Floyd Mayweather is known as one of the greatest professional boxers of all time, but he’s also made quite the name for himself as a businessman. In recent years, Mayweather has capitalized on the booming and growing popularity of online gambling by partnering with leading gaming platforms to promote their services.
By means of strategic endorsements and partnerships, Mayweather has leveraged his star power to drive awareness and engagement for online casinos, while also expanding his own business portfolio and earning potential.
Neymar Junior
Undoubtedly, Neymar Junior commands a massive global following both on and off the football field. In addition to his successful athletic pursuits, he’s ventured into the online gambling industry as a strategic partner and brand ambassador for leading gaming and gambling companies.
His success has certainly been fueled, in part, by his charisma and social media influence, allowing him to be part of the process of elevating the profiles of online casinos and attracting a new generation of players to online gambling.
Celebrities Involved in Online Gambling Gaming Startups
Gaming startups are another way celebrities have started getting involved in online gambling – it involves a fair bit of risk, and it requires persistence and patience, but there’s massive potential for substantial earnings.
Here are a few celebrities who have taken a chance.
Justin Timberlake
Not only is Justin Timberlake a household name in the entertainment industry, but he’s also become a savvy investor with a passion for tech and innovation. He’s been particularly interested in startups that involve virtual reality and immersive experiences. Timberlake has played a key role in promoting cutting-edge gaming technologies and shaping the future of online entertainment.
Serna Willims
Serena Williams is known as a champion on the tennis court, but she’s also a shrewd businesswoman with a diverse investment portfolio. Over recent years, she’s shown a growing interest in online gambling, backing startups that are disrupting the traditional casino model with innovative gaming experiences and social features. Her entrepreneurial spirit and global influence have helped drive positive change and innovation in the online gambling sector.
