The world of casinos and gambling has long experienced a launch from the games themselves into the Hollywood industry. This came about because the world of gambling is not only about roulette casino games and other entertainment forms. There’s also a lot of drama, excitement, and emotions that go on behind the curtains.
As a result, several TV shows, past and present, have attempted to carefully capture the drama and portray it to audiences in a compelling manner. And this brings us to this article where we shall discuss some of the best casino and gambling series out there. Let’s dive in.
Las Vegas (2003-2008)
It’s only fitting that a TV series named after the iconic Sin City is number one on this list. As the name implies, this show is set in Las Vegas, a city well renowned for its gambling culture, home to a variety of casinos. But this show in particular focuses on a single, although fictional, casino in Vegas called Montecito Resort and Casino.
The series then tracks the casino’s employees and how daily they have to navigate the rigorous responsibilities of running a high-end casino in Vegas. Featuring in this show is James Caan playing the role of Ed Deline, and Josh Duhamel as Danny McCoy, Deline’s right-hand man.
Delivering a three-in-one movie genre of romance, comedy, and drama, Las Vegas gives a perfect depiction of Sin City’s vibrant casino atmosphere. With the high roller games, glamorous setting, and ever-evolving characters, this series is a great watch.
Breaking Vegas (2004-2005)
Breaking Vegas is a must-watch for those who love to learn the true stories behind legends in the gambling scene. The series came as a documentary aired on The History Channel revealing the story and exploits of famous punters who beat the system (legally or illegally) and how they pulled it off. All in all, it was an educational but entertaining show highlighting the cat-and-mouse game between gamblers and operators.
For each of the 14 episodes in the series, different individuals or groups were called on to detail their methods as well as the implications of their actions. Thus, many of them explained how they used intelligence, cunning tactics, and outright scams to make money at the casino. Some of these tactics included card counting tricks, card marking, past posting, and even sleight of hand.
Luck (2011-2012)
Luck was a relatively short series that spanned two years. Focusing on horse racing and gambling, the story featured major actors like Dustin Hoffman and Nick Nolte. This movie series portrays the actual lives of trainers, jockeys, gamblers, and other patrons of the racing industry.
Although short-lived, the series received widespread acclaim for its impressive performances and storytelling. Giving a glimpse at the darker ends of the gambling spectrum, it explores themes of addiction, corruption, and redemption. Due to this and its complex development of characters, Luck is a standout series in the gambling genre.
Poker After Dark (2007-Present)
Poker, having gained traction as an intellectual game in the gambling scene, further got its hooks in the Hollywood TV shows market. To this effect, the Poker After Dark series became a fan favorite after its original debut on NBC. This late-night programme hosted top professional poker players as they featured in high-stakes poker.
What makes this show so popular is that professionals get to implement their strategies in the view of the audience. Thus, viewers get to witness real-time gameplay that emphasizes the intricacies of the game.
Casino Confidential (2013)
A reality TV series that aired on TBC, Casino Confidential gave its watchers a glimpse into the operations occurring behind the scenes of the Binion’s Gambling Hall in Las Vegas. At the time, this show garnered the interest of many viewers ranging from first-time gamblers to high rollers. Although very short, the show perfectly blended drama and humor to provide an entertaining look at the day-to-day life of casino employees.
Tilt (2005)
Michael Madsen, the iconic actor played the role of the legendary, yet corrupt poker player known as ‘The Matador’ in ESPN’s Tilt. Tilt is a show focusing on professional poker gamblers who take down this corrupt legend. The series does well to explore drama in the form of loyalty, betrayal, and revenge, making it a very compelling watch.
High Stakes Poker (2006-2011, 2020-Present)
Once again, the game of poker features in another exciting and tension-inducing drama TV series. This TV programme titled High Stakes Poker aired on the Game Show Network in the first decade of the 2000s but then, it witnessed a revival 10 years later. In this programme, pro gamblers play poker tournaments in real-time, and viewers watch as huge amounts of money keep changing hands.
The mere fact that fans welcomed this show’s revival with open arms is a testament enough to its appeal. But if you find yourself in doubt, feel free to delve into the tension and excitement that the show aims to induce.