MGM Resorts came to the defense of Bruno Mars after rumors circulated that the Grammy winning artist had debt with the casino.
As of late, NewsNation made a report that Mars had racked up nearly $50 million in gambling debt at MGM. The publication cited an anonymous source close to the situation claiming that Mars allegedly made $90 million a year through his residencies at MGM but indeed used a large chunk of the profit to pay off gambling debt.
[He will] only make $1.5 million per night after taxes,” the report claimed. (“MGM) basically own him,” they added.
A spokesperson for MGM Resorts International tells Variety that these allegations are “completely false” as Mars has “no debt with MGM.”
“We’re proud of our relationship with Bruno Mars, one of the world’s most thrilling and dynamic performers,” they wrote in a statement. “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. Together, we are excited to continue creating unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
Mars has been performing for Las Vegas residencies since 2016 and has a multi-year partnership with MGM Resorts. In addition, Mars and the casino recently partnered to launch the Pinky Ring cocktail bar and entertainment lounge inside the Bellagio Hotel and Casino. The venue features live performances, all curated by Mars.
Mars has spoken about his gambling habits in the past, opening up about the first time he ever visited a casino at 19 years old in a 2013 interview with GQ.
ADVERTISEMENT
“I remember my first bet, my hand was shaking, and a guy called me out on it and embarrassed me,” he said, adding that he ultimately lost one hundred dollars on the gamble. “You gotta lose. You just have to lose to win, to understand.”
“I used to be like a loudmouth. You know the guy, people would want to take his money,” he continued. “If you do get them to lose, they’re out for you, they’re gunning for you. And that’s when they’re weak. And that’s when you jump or pounce on them.”
