Some controversial stories tend to leak from the gambling industry, and they sometimes involve A-List celebrities. One such story has emerged this week, as Ben Affleck has reportedly been banned from blackjack playing the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. This week, sources report that the movie star and director was accused of using an unwelcome practice at the Las Vegas gambling venue.
Casino security claim that he was counting cards, a common gambling tactic that provides players with a greater winning edge over the house. The casino operator stated that Affleck was an ‘advantaged player’ and he was banned from playing blackjack the premises. While he was invited to play other games at the casino, Affleck and his wife Jennifer Garner decided to leave the venue altogether for the night.
US Magazine was able to receive testimony from an eye-witness: "Security said, 'You are too good at the game,' The hotel was really nice about it and told him he could play other games. They ended up getting him and Jennifer a car back to their hotel too." Ben Affleck is well-known as avid poker player. He has played in many high-profile poker tournaments, so it is no surprise that he is able to count cards.
Card counting is not actually considered cheating, but operators frown upon it. By counting the cards, the player can deduce which cards are likely to be played next which provides them with a significant advantage over the house. So, the player is simply exerting a skill that most other patrons will not have, and this competitive advantage is not welcome at land-based casinos.
There is still little information about the story. However, since it is celebrity gossip, we can expect to hear more from the press in coming days.
We will keep you updated.
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