MGM Denies Bruno Mars Owes Resort $50 Million In Gambling Debt

MGM Denies Bruno Mars Owes Them $50 Million

According to Complex MGM Resorts in Las Vegas has denied a rumor circulating that pop star Bruno Mars owed the company $50 million in gambling debt. The resort released the following statement:

“We’re proud of our relationship with Bruno Mars, one of the world’s most thrilling and dynamic performers,” MGM wrote in a statement provided to Complex. “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.”

The statement continues: “Any speculation otherwise is completely false; he has no debt with MGM. Together, we are excited to continue creating unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

Bruno Mars Has a Residency At MGM

Bruno Mars has been in a multi-million dollar partnership with MGM Resort in Las Vegas since 2016 reportedly. The 24k Magic singer allegedly makes $90 million a year to perform nightly at the resort. Mars also allegedly signed off to run his cocktail lounge inside the Bellagio Resort called The Pinky Ring.

How The Rumor Began

News outlets such as News Nation reported the now-denied claims, that Bruno Mars allegedly had a severe gambling addiction and ran up a $50 million debt while working for MGM Resorts. This rumor seemed to be based on the singer admitting to gambling as a hobby during his spare time. In an interview with GQ’s Chris Heath, Mars spoke openly regarding his early days of gambling at Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, before becoming famous.

“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 at the time. “And that’s when they’re weak. And that’s when you jump or pounce on them.”

Mars also stated he was 19 the first time he gambled at a casino.

“I remember my first bet, my hand was shaking, and a guy called me out on it and embarrassed me,” he said, admitting he lost a hundred dollars he couldn’t afford to lose. “You gotta lose. You just have to lose to win, to understand.”

Bruno stated during another interview he was able to pay his rent while living in L.A. by playing cards. This was on an episode of Carpool Karaoke for the Late Late Show with James Corden back in 2016.