Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper has addressed a controversy surrounding a Cameo video recorded in November 2024, in which he delivered a holiday greeting that was subsequently used by FanDuel as a gambling promotion. Harper stated he believed he was recording a simple holiday message and was unaware of FanDuel's intentions.
The video has become entangled in a lawsuit filed against FanDuel and other defendants by Terry Thompson, a gambler who reportedly wagered $18.5 million and lost over $1.5 million on the platform alone. Thompson's lawsuit alleges FanDuel targeted him.
Harper released a statement on his Instagram Stories to distance himself from the situation, asserting that his participation on Cameo was intended for fan engagement through personalized videos. "What happened here went beyond anything I knew about or approved," Harper wrote. He claimed the request appeared to be personal, asking him to wish "Terry" a happy Thanksgiving, and stated, "FanDuel then put its own logo on the video and used it as a gambling promotion. I did not know FanDuel would do this, I did not consent to it, and FanDuel had no right to do it."
However, the video footage shows Harper reading a script that explicitly mentions the sportsbook. In the recording, Harper addresses Thompson and states, "your host Bryttanni from FanDuel" wanted to ensure he had an extra-special holiday. Critics point out that reading the words "from FanDuel" on camera makes his claim of complete ignorance difficult to accept.
Harpersaid he read the script "in good faith." The situation has drawn scrutiny, particularly as it involves a promotional message tied to a sportsbook. While Harper did not bet on baseball, the circumstances are likely to attract attention within Major League Baseball.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is reportedly investigating FanDuel's use of celebrity messages to target high-roller VIP bettors. It remains to be seen how Major League Baseball will view Harper's involvement.
At minimum, the incident has been characterized as a lapse in judgment, with Harper failing to recognize that a script mentioning a "FanDuel host" constituted a gambling promotion. Alternatively, some suggest he accepted a paid request without adequate inquiry and is now attempting to distance himself after the complexities of sports betting addiction became public.
FanDuel, the Phillies, and Harper's representatives were contacted for comment. The controversy highlights the intersection of sports betting, celebrity endorsements, and player conduct.