The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is reviewing a video featuring Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper that was sent to a FanDuel bettor who has publicly stated he is battling a gambling addiction. The bettor, Terry Thompson, claims he lost $1.5 million due to his addiction and that online sportsbooks like FanDuel enabled it through promotional offers and gifts.
FanDuel reportedly acquired the video of Harper, who charges $899 for personalized messages on the platform Cameo, and sent it to Thompson. Thompson, who lost his home to gambling, was diagnosed with a gambling disorder after voluntarily entering a psychiatric facility. He alleges that his FanDuel VIP host offered him luxury incentives, including Super Bowl tickets and accommodations, to encourage continued betting.
Thompson's lawsuit, which does not specifically mention the Harper video, accuses FanDuel and DraftKings of enabling his addiction. According to court documents, Thompson's VIP host, Bryttani Morgan, allegedly suggested he take a "timeout" after a difficult betting period but soon after contacted him about another "emergency" – a Super Bowl gift package. The suit claims Morgan continued to provide Thompson with perks such as tickets to Philadelphia sporting events and free betting credits to ensure he kept gambling on the FanDuel app.
FanDuel has stated it is committed to responsible gaming and protecting its customers, asserting that its employees are trained to identify signs of problem gambling and offer resources. The company noted that its policies are continually reviewed to strengthen consumer protection measures, distinguishing itself from offshore sportsbooks.
When asked if Thompson was offered such resources, one of his attorneys pointed to the suggested "break" as the extent of the assistance provided.
Bryce Harper does not have an endorsement deal with FanDuel and has not publicly commented on the matter. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has stated it is aware of the situation and is reviewing it but declined to comment further at this time.