Popular American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars, best known for his hit songs and stage performances, recently made it to the headlines for all the wrong reasons. As per the latest reports, it was claimed that Mars owes a massive debt, years after announcing a multi-year residency with MGM Resorts International. The source further claimed that the music artist owed $50 million to MGM as he entered his ninth year of residency, adding that Mars only makes $1.5 million per night after tax deduction. Amid all the speculations and rumours, the Vegas entertainment company has finally spoken out and cleared the air.
In a statement to ET, MGM Resorts International denied such rumours claiming that the singer is in debt with the company.
“We’re proud of our relationship with Bruno Mars, one of the world’s most thrilling and dynamic performers. From his shows at Dolby Live at Park MGM to the new Pinky Ring lounge at Bellagio, Bruno’s brand of entertainment attracts visitors from around the globe. MGM and Bruno’s partnership is longstanding and rooted in mutual respect,” the statement read further, confirming that any speculation otherwise is completely fake and that he has no debt with MGM.
Is Bruno Mars in huge debt?
A few days ago, it was reported that Bruno Mars owed millions of dollars to the MGM casino after hefty poker debts piled up. “MGM basically owns him. He earns $90 million a year from the casino deal, but then he has to pay back his debt… after taxes (Mars earns $1.5 million per night),” the report claimed. At a time when the singer never denied his involvement in playing poker before pursuing music, fans were left shocked by the news of his massive debt to the casino.
In an old conversation with GQ, the singer shared, “I remember my first bet; my hand was shaking, and a guy called me out on it and embarrassed me. I used to be a loudmouth. You know the guy; people would want to take his money.”
He also opened up about the kind of people around him and said, “If you do get them to lose, they’re out for you, they’re gunning for you. And that’s when they’re weak. And that’s when you jump or pounce on them.”
Notably, it was in 2016 that Mars entered into a long-term partnership with the hospitality industry, which will include his exclusive performances across world-class entertainment venues.