The online gambling industry has become a booming market, with companies spending millions on celebrity endorsements to attract new users. Athletes, musicians, and influencers are being tapped to promote these platforms to their massive followings, and in return, they’re reaping substantial financial rewards. Here are the top 10 celebrities who endorse online casinos and an estimate of how much they’ve earned from these deals.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (PokerStars)
Endorsement Deal: Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most famous athletes on the planet, became a brand ambassador for PokerStars in 2015. The partnership was aimed at leveraging Ronaldo’s global appeal to promote the popular poker site.
Estimated Earnings: While the specific amount hasn’t been publicly disclosed, his deal is estimated to be worth $3-5 million annually, based on similar sponsorships he has signed with other brands.
2. Lionel Messi (BC.Game)
Endorsement Deal: In 2022, Messi signed on as a global ambassador for BC.Game, a crypto-based gambling platform. This partnership allowed BC.Game to tap into Messi’s global fanbase, especially in regions where cryptocurrency and online casinos are- growing. BC.Game is one of the most popular online casinos right now that offer slots from providers like Betsoft, Pragmatic, and many more.
Estimated Earnings: Though details haven’t been fully disclosed, experts estimate Messi’s deal to be worth around $5-7 million per year due to his worldwide fame and marketing value.
3. Drake (Stake)
Endorsement Deal: Rapper Drake partnered with Stake.com in 2022 and began live-streaming his gambling sessions, drawing millions of viewers. His involvement added significant attention to Stake, particularly in the crypto-gambling space.
Estimated Earnings: Drake’s partnership is reportedly worth $40-50 million over the course of the deal, including bonuses from player engagement generated by his streams.
4. Jamie Foxx (BetMGM)
Endorsement Deal: Academy Award-winning actor Jamie Foxx became the face of BetMGM in 2020. His endorsement has been featured in a series of commercials, promotions, and social media campaigns for the casino and sportsbook platform.
Estimated Earnings: While not officially confirmed, Foxx’s deal with BetMGM is believed to be worth $10-12 million, considering his prominence and cross-industry appeal.
5. Conor McGregor (Parimatch)
Endorsement Deal: UFC star Conor McGregor became a global ambassador for Parimatch, a popular betting platform, in 2019. His brash persona and crossover appeal in sports and entertainment made him a perfect fit for the company’s high-energy branding.
Estimated Earnings: McGregor’s deal is estimated at around $5-10 million, with additional incentives based on user engagement from his promotional efforts.
6. Neymar Jr. (PokerStars)
Endorsement Deal: Like Ronaldo, Neymar Jr. has been closely associated with PokerStars, joining as an ambassador in 2021. Neymar’s love for poker and massive fanbase, especially in Brazil, made him a natural fit for the platform.
Estimated Earnings: Neymar reportedly earns around $5-6 million per year for his ongoing partnership with PokerStars, bolstered by his personal involvement in promoting the game.
7. Adin Ross (Stake)
Endorsement Deal: Canadian Twitch streamer Adin Ross also struck a deal with Stake (see here). He is regularly broadcasting his high-stakes gambling to his millions of followers. Ross has played a key role in bringing a younger audience to the platform.
Estimated Earnings: Ross reportedly earns $1-2 million per month from Stake, making him one of the highest-paid influencers in the online casino industry.
8. Kevin Hart (DraftKings)
Endorsement Deal: Comedian and actor Kevin Hart partnered with DraftKings, a leading sports betting and online casino operator. Hart’s humor and popularity have been used to promote the brand in commercials and digital campaigns.
Estimated Earnings: Hart’s deal is believed to be worth $10-12 million, given his immense popularity and the broad reach of his campaigns.
9. Ben Affleck (WynnBET)
Endorsement Deal: Oscar-winning actor Ben Affleck teamed up with WynnBET in 2021, both directing and starring in commercials for the online sportsbook and casino platform. He has appeared alongside athletes and other celebrities to boost the brand’s presence.
Estimated Earnings: Affleck’s partnership is valued at around $8-10 million, considering his involvement in both directing and acting in the promotional content.
10. Paris Hilton (PokerStars)
Endorsement Deal: Celebrity and socialite Paris Hilton partnered with PokerStars in the early 2010s, leveraging her global recognition to appeal to a younger, more casual poker audience.
Estimated Earnings: While Paris Hilton’s deal was short-lived compared to others on this list, it is estimated she made $1-2 million from her endorsement during that period.
Conclusion
Celebrity endorsements have become a cornerstone of online casino marketing strategies, with companies willing to pay huge sums to leverage their fame. From Cristiano Ronaldo to Jamie Foxx, these celebrities have helped gambling platforms reach wider audiences while pocketing millions of dollars in return. As the online casino market continues to grow, expect more A-list endorsements and even larger deals in the future.
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