Jamie Gold
Having accomplished a number of milestones in both interests, Gold owns his own entertainment company called Buzznation and has even won the 2006 World Series of Poker . As a long-time talent agent as well, Gold has managed such notables as Jimmy Fallon and Lucy Liu. Gold developed an interest in poker at a very young age. During his childhood, he was influenced by the keen poker interests of both his mother and grandfather. Later, he aspired to develop his interests by working with World Series main event winners Johnny Chan and Chris Moneymaker, collaborating together on a television show, an endeavor that led to Chan mentoring Gold in his poker ambitions. Gold’s poker interests steadily grew and in 2005, he became a regular participant in poker tournaments. That same year, he won his first major no limit Texas hold’em pot of $54,225 at the Bicycle Casino. This led to further success as Gold went on to finish in the money at a total of seven more tournaments in the following year. Throughout the poker world, Jamie Gold has been criticized for his aggressive style. Known to pressure other players, especially late in rounds, he has been seen as controversial. While Bluff magazine has referred to his style as a perfected art and Chris Ferguson has also made an endorsement, many pros have been critical of his approach. Many have been surprised by his uncanny behaviour; a style that has involved as much as flashing his cards to his opponents and speaking in very obvious yet inconsistent commentary on his own ability. Some have even stated that such actions are against World Series of Poker rules. Regardless of legality, Gold’s style has proven effective. Up to 2008, he had won money in 13 different tournaments amassing a total of more than $12, 000,000. In addition to his table success, Jamie Gold made efforts to succeed in the poker and entertainment businesses as well. Just before his 2006 win, he formed a business agreement with Bodog.com Entertainment to enlist celebrities to play in major tournaments under the Bodog banner. He also partnered with Crispin Leyser for assistance, offering half of his winnings to Leyser. Leyser later sued Gold for half of his total $12 million. After an ensuing legal battle, the two settled out of court for an undisclosed amount. Later in 2007, when Bodog ended their U.S. operation, they also ended their relationship with Gold. Today, JamieGold continues to combine both careers, appearing on such televised events as NBC’s Poker After Dark and GSN’s High Stakes Poker. The 2007 World Series of Poker saw less success for Gold as he took an early exit. He continues to broaden his pursuits as well, participating in a number of charitable tournaments such as “Ante Up For Africa” and fundraisers for Lou Gehrig’s disease.
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