4 Comic Book Movie Actors Who Love Playing Poker

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It’s quite fascinating how poker players and superheroes share several similarities. A study published on Taylor & Francis Online reveals that factors like logical thinking, self-control, and networking with peers are key elements contributing to the success of top-tier poker players. Just as they regulate their feelings and plan their actions wisely, poker players excel at making optimal decisions on the table. Similarly, superheroes demonstrate remarkable calmness and rationality in high-pressure situations, and sometimes work together with others to overcome adversaries and save the day.

It’s not surprising that the actors playing these characters on the silver screen also appreciate poker, as it offers a comparable rush to saving cities or universes. Much like their heroic personas, several of them employ their poker talents for charitable purposes, extending their impact beyond comic books and films. Here are some notable comic book movie actors who enjoy poker:

1. Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man)
2. Chris Evans (Captain America)
3. Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye)
4. Mark Ruffalo (Hulk)
5. Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool)

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck has consistently proven himself as a versatile and influential figure in Hollywood, both behind and in front of the camera. His casting as Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice sparked debate but ended up being well-received. He’s since appeared in numerous films within the DC Extended Universe, such as Justice League, Suicide Squad, and The Flash. Apart from playing the legendary superhero, Affleck has also demonstrated his prowess at poker tables. In 2004, he emerged victorious in the California State Poker Championship, pocketing $365,400. He often plays for charity and has participated in various World Series of Poker (WSOP) tournaments for Ante Up For Africa. In 2020, he joined other prominent celebrities and professional poker players at a tournament aimed at raising funds for Feeding America. Stars like Matt Damon, Bryan Cranston, Tom Brady, among others, were also present. The event, organized by ACR Poker, a prominent online poker platform featuring pros like Chris Moneymaker, Nacho Barbero, and Ana Marquez, ultimately collected $1.75 million. Affleck was also part of Molly Bloom’s high-stakes poker games in the mid-2000s, alongside other actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire for the film Molly’s Game.

Tobey Maguire

Tobey Maguire attained legendary status in the world of comic book films, famously portraying Spider-Man in the influential Spider-Man movie trilogy that paved the way for future superhero adaptations. He later reappeared as Spider-Man in Spider-Man: No Way Home alongside Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Off-screen, he’s a passionate poker player, diving into the game around the turn of the millennium. He soon garnered recognition for his talent and aggressive approach to the game, receiving guidance from professional poker player Daniel Negreanu. He has collected winnings in various tournaments and contested the WSOP Main Event Championship in 2005, 2006, and 2007. His skill at poker has been forever captured on film, with Molly’s Game portraying his abilities through Michael Cera’s composite character, Player X.

Don Cheadle

When Don Cheadle took on the character of James “Rhodey” Rhodes/War Machine in Iron Man 2, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was still finding its stride. Since then, he’s appeared frequently in various MCU movies and series like several Avengers films, Captain Marvel, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, and Secret Invasion. Besides his acting career, Cheadle is an avid activist, frequently utilizing his love for poker to aid charitable causes. For instance, in 2007 at the World Series of Poker (WSOP), he and poker player Annie Duke organized the annual event Ante Up for Africa. In that year, finalists Dan Shak and Brandon Moran decided to share first place and donated their winnings to charities in Darfur, Sudan. More recently, Cheadle participated in Stars CALL For Action, an online charity poker event during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising funds for relief efforts. He outperformed other celebrities such as Michael Cera, Jon Hamm, Amy Schumer, and Jeff Garlin to reach the finals.

Paul Rudd

Paul Rudd’s acting resume boasts numerous film and TV roles, but his career took off significantly when he joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ant-Man in 2015. He rapidly won over fans with his charisma, wit, and relatable personality. Off-screen, he is admired for his philanthropic endeavors. In collaboration with fellow Kansan actors Rob Riggle and Jason Sudeikis, he established Big Slick in 2010 – an annual celebrity poker tournament that raises funds for Children’s Mercy Kansas City. Throughout the years, they’ve invited other celebrities to join various events, with all earnings going directly towards the pediatric hospital. The event, now in its 16th year, has amassed a total of $21 million since its launch through sponsorships, auctions, merchandise, and additional fundraising activities.

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2025-02-18 15:46