Bryce Harper Responds to FanDuel Cameo Controversy as Gambling Promotion Faces Scrutiny
Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper has responded publicly after a personalized Cameo video he recorded for a high-stakes sports bettor became part of a lawsuit involving FanDuel, saying he believed he was simply sending a holiday greeting and did not approve the video's promotional use.
The controversy centers on a November 2024 Cameo message created for Terry Thompson, a bettor who later sued FanDuel and other defendants, alleging he was aggressively targeted through the sportsbook's VIP program. Thompson claims he wagered approximately $18.5 million across sportsbooks and lost more than $1.5 million on FanDuel alone.
Harper Says He Didn't Approve Promotional Use
In a statement shared on Instagram Stories, Harper said he joined Cameo to create personalized videos for fans and had no knowledge that his message would be used in connection with a sportsbook promotion.
According to Harper, the request appeared to be a standard holiday greeting for someone identified as "Terry." He alleged that FanDuel later added its branding and used the video without his consent.
Harper said the situation "went beyond anything I knew about or approved."
Video Explicitly Mentioned FanDuel
The controversy has intensified because the video itself included a direct reference to the sportsbook.
In the recording, Harper tells Thompson that "your host Bryttanni from FanDuel" wanted to wish him a happy Thanksgiving, suggesting the script specifically identified FanDuel during the message.
That detail has prompted questions about whether Harper understood the video's connection to the sportsbook before recording it.
Harper maintained he simply read the requested script in good faith.
Lawsuit Raises Questions About VIP Gambling Programs
The Cameo message surfaced through litigation filed by Thompson, who alleges FanDuel and others used personalized outreach and incentives to encourage continued betting despite substantial gambling losses.
The lawsuit has drawn attention to how sportsbooks engage with high-value customers through VIP programs and promotional marketing.
Harper is not accused of placing sports bets or violating MLB's gambling rules, but his appearance in the promotional message has brought additional attention to the case.
Pennsylvania Regulators Reviewing the Matter
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is reviewing FanDuel's reported use of celebrity video messages directed at VIP bettors.
The investigation is focused on the sportsbook's marketing practices rather than Harper's personal conduct.
Major League Baseball has not announced any disciplinary action or formal investigation involving the Phillies first baseman.
What's Next?
The legal dispute involving Terry Thompson and FanDuel remains ongoing, while regulators continue examining the sportsbook's VIP marketing practices.
Harper has sought to distance himself from the promotion, arguing he intended only to deliver a personalized greeting through Cameo. Whether his explanation satisfies regulators or prompts further review from Major League Baseball remains unclear as the broader case continues to unfold.
