An explosive new report this week suggests that international pop star Bruno Mars owes a major Las Vegas casino resort operator an astonishing amount in gambling debts.
The Smoking out the Window singer reportedly owes MGM Resorts International up to $50 million for past gambling sessions.
However, these debts have been sustained by MGM, as they also pay Mars $90 million a year in sponsorship money.
Today, MGM Resorts denied the report in a statement.
We’re proud of our relationship with Bruno Mars, one of the world’s most thrilling and dynamic performers. From his shows at Dolby Live at Park MGM to the new Pinky Ring lounge at Bellagio, Bruno’s brand of entertainment attracts visitors from around the globe.
“MGM and Bruno’s partnership is longstanding and rooted in mutual respect. Any speculation otherwise is completely false; he has no debt with MGM,” the statement continued. “Together, we are excited to continue creating unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
The singer recently extended his nine-year residency at MGM’s Park MGM in Las Vegas. He also has his own themed bar at the Bellagio called The Pinky Ring.
Mars has previously talked about gambling in his hit song lyrics, and has frequently discussed his time spent as a professional poker player in Los Angeles before hitting big as a musician.
Pay Back His Debt
Mars, 38, is one of the best-selling music artists of all-time. He has eight number one singles and 15 Grammy Awards under his belt.
No wonder that MGM agreed to pay $90 million a year to keep his Las Vegas residency going so long.
“They basically own him. He makes $90 million a year off of the deal he did with the casino, but then he has to pay back his debt,” said the unnamed Las Vegas source, via NewsNation, who broke the story.
Mars has often spoken about gambling in the media. In 2013, told reporters he placed his first bet in a casino at the age of 19 and hasn’t looked back since.
“I remember my first bet, my hand was shaking, and a guy called me out on it and embarrassed me,” Mars said, speaking to GQ.
Loudmouth Poker Player
Mars also mentioned his love of poker and his brief stint as a professional card shark when on the Carpool Karaoke TV segment on The Late Late Show with James Corden.
“I used to be like a loudmouth. You know the guy, people would want to take his money. If you do get them to lose, they’re out for you, they’re gunning for you,” Mars said.
“And that’s when they’re weak. And that’s when you jump or pounce on them.”
For now, though, Mars’ potentially hefty gambling debts remain unconfirmed. His very public spat with his Silk Sonic partner Anderson Paak was not so hidden. The throwback duo had a big dispute over, what else, financial agreements, which ended up in the Grammy winning act withdrawing their second album for consideration in 2022’s awards.
The duo’s return for several shows at Park MGM in May 2024 indicates that the argument has been settled.
David is an online casino expert who specializes in online slots and boasts over 10 years experience writing about iGaming. He has written for a wide range of notable publications, including eSports Insider and WordPlay Magazine.
David graduated Derby University with a BA Degree in English Literature and Creative Writing.
