FanDuel’s VIP program faces probe after Bryce Harper Cameo row
FanDuel denies the videos were used to spur more betting, calling them tokens of loyalty.
The hit
Three US lawmakers have given FanDuel until 20 October to release around 30 personalised celebrity videos sent to high-rolling bettors. The demand follows reports that Phillies star Bryce Harper recorded a Cameo greeting for a customer who alleges he lost $1.5m gambling on the platform, according to Casino.org.
Why it matters
Lawmakers want to know whether FanDuel’s VIP program used celebrity perks & customer data to keep problem gamblers betting rather than flag them for harm. If the videos show targeting of flagged accounts, it could strengthen lawsuits against operators & pressure regulators to tighten VIP-scheme rules across the industry.
The record
| Deadline for FanDuel to release videos | 20 October (Sen. Richard Blumenthal, Reps. Paul Tonko & Valerie Foushee) |
|---|---|
| Customer’s alleged losses | $1.5m lost from $18.5m wagered, 2020-2025 (lawsuit) |
| Celebrity videos acknowledged by FanDuel | Approx. 30, sent over two years (FanDuel statement, 24 Sept) |
| Harper video length | 21 seconds, arranged via Cameo by a FanDuel VIP manager |
What happens next
FanDuel must respond to Congress by 20 October with the videos & details on recipients’ gambling histories & how VIP targets were chosen.
Sources: FanDuel Pressed to Reveal Celebrity Videos Sent to High-Rolling Gamblers
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