MGM Resorts Shuts Down Claims Bruno Mars Owes $50 Million in Gambling Debt

The hospitality and entertainment company called the claims "completely false"

Anderson .Paak and Bruno Mars of Silk Sonic attend the 2021 American Music Awards
Bruno Mars in Los Angeles in November 2021. Photo:

John Esparza via Getty Images

MGM Resorts has denied claims that Bruno Mars owes the hospitality empire millions of dollars in gambling debt. 

The company's response comes after NewsNation reported last week that Mars, 38, landed himself in gambling debt of over $50 million at MGM — a large portion of which is being paid off from the money made from the singer’s residency at Park MGM in Las Vegas, according to a source.

MGM Resorts International said in a statement to PEOPLE, “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. Any speculation otherwise is completely false; he has no debt with MGM,” the statement continued. “Together, we are excited to continue creating unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

Bruno Mars of Silk Sonic
Bruno Mars performs at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Kevin Mazur/Getty

A source had claimed to NewsNation that MGM “basically owned” Mars after he allegedly racked up millions in gambling debt with the hospitality and entertainment company. 

The outlet also claimed that Mars made $90 million a year from his residencies at MGM, but the singer was using a large amount of that to pay the company back. 

“[He will] only make $1.5 million per night after taxes,” NewsNation claimed. 

Bruno Mars attends the 2018 Billboard Music Awards
Bruno Mars in Las Vegas in May 2018.

Kevin Mazur/BBMA18/WireImage

Mars has a longstanding relationship with MGM. In 2016, the “24K Magic” singer launched his partnership with the company which led to his Park MGM residency and his Pinky Ring cocktail bar at Bellagio Resort & Casino, which opened in early 2024. 

The report of Mars’ gambling debt comes months after he announced an extension to his Vegas residency at Park MGM in December 2023. 

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Mars was initially set to wrap up his residency last August before adding the five additional shows in December 2023 and five shows in February 2024.

PEOPLE has reached out to Mars’ representatives for comment.

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