Harper Breaks Silence on Unauthorized Commercial Use
Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper issued a formal statement on July 13, 2026, categorically denying he authorized FanDuel to use a personalized video message for gambling promotion. The video, which surfaced amid a lawsuit involving a high-stakes bettor, has sparked significant scrutiny regarding the intersection of athlete fan-engagement platforms and the gambling industry.
The 21-second clip, recorded in November 2024 via the platform Cameo, was initially presented to Harper as a personal holiday message for a fan. However, FanDuel subsequently added its corporate branding to the footage, distributing it to a VIP customer who is currently part of a lawsuit alleging that sportsbooks intentionally exploited his gambling addiction. Harper, who has no affiliation with the betting firm, asserted that he was unaware of the commercial intent at the time of recording.
Regulatory and Reputational Stakes
“I read the script in good faith,” Harper stated via his Instagram account. “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.” According to reports from The Athletic and ESPN, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is currently reviewing the incident.
The controversy highlights potential gaps in the vetting process for athlete-fan interactions. While Harper maintains he believed the request was a standard personal message, reports confirm a partnership exists between Cameo and FanDuel, allowing the sportsbook to secure content for its VIP clients. FanDuel stated that its employees are trained to identify problem gambling, though they declined to provide further comment on the specific unauthorized use of Harper’s likeness.