GambleAware Warns: Celebrity Influence Driving Youth Gambling Exposure
New research by GambleAware warns that children and teenagers across Great Britain are being exposed to gambling content through celebrities and influencers on social media. With 87% of young people surveyed reporting online exposure and a quarter tempted to gamble after seeing celebrity involvement, the findings highlight the urgent need for stronger regulation. At Chase the Scatter, we stand firmly for responsible gambling, creating content only for adults and supporting initiatives that protect minors from gambling-related harm.
Editorial Team
New research commissioned by GambleAware has revealed troubling insights into how children and young people in Great Britain are being exposed to gambling content through celebrities, influencers, and digital platforms.
The reports, compiled by Social Finance and Sherbert Research, show that 87% of children aged 13–17 surveyed had encountered gambling-related content online, often via social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, Instagram, and Kick. Alarmingly, one in six (16%) had seen influencers directly advertising gambling, while others reported seeing streamers and creators share links, sign-up codes, or even gambling “tips and tricks.”
The Power of Celebrity Influence
The role of celebrity endorsement in this issue is particularly concerning:
25% of young people said they had been tempted to gamble after seeing a celebrity promote or take part in gambling.
36% of boys aged 16–17 reported gambling themselves after watching celebrity-driven gambling content.
Two-thirds (67%) of respondents agreed that celebrities and influencers should not be allowed to promote gambling, with many noting that fame gives these figures a false sense of trustworthiness.
One young person told researchers:
“Because you… You would feel like they’re trustworthy because they’re famous and everyone knows them.”
Young People Call for Change
The surveys revealed that young audiences themselves want tighter rules. 79% said there should be stricter regulation around gambling content on social media, while 78% agreed that nobody under 18 should be exposed to gambling advertising at all.
Zoë Osmond OBE, CEO of GambleAware, stressed the urgency of reform:
“It is unacceptable that children’s environments continue to be flooded with age-restricted content. Consistent exposure to influencer-driven gambling content contributes to the normalisation of gambling amongst school-aged children.”
Our Stance at Chase the Scatter
At Chase the Scatter, we take responsible gambling very seriously. We want to make it absolutely clear:
Our content is for adults only. We do not cater to children or minors under any circumstances.
We provide casino news, slot showcases, and reviews exclusively for an adult audience, with a focus on entertainment and transparency.
We fully support GambleAware’s call for stronger regulation and share the view that under-18s should never be exposed to gambling-related content.
We also encourage our readers to gamble responsibly and seek help if they feel at risk. For confidential support, contact the National Gambling Helpline or visit gambleaware.org
Data source: https://www.gambleaware.org/what-we-do/news/news-articles/new-research-commissioned-by-gambleaware-highlights-how-the-use-of-celebrity-fuels-gambling-amongst-children-and-young-people/
FAQs on Celebrity Influence and Responsible Gambling
Why is celebrity influence in gambling a concern?
Celebrities and influencers hold significant sway over young audiences. Research shows that many children and teenagers feel gambling looks “cool,” fun, or easy money when they see it promoted by famous individuals. This can normalize gambling at an early age and increase the risk of harm later in life.
What is GambleAware calling for?
GambleAware is urging regulators to restrict gambling marketing on digital platforms, reassess the use of celebrities in gambling ads, and ensure stronger protections for young people online.
Does Chase the Scatter target under-18s?
No. Chase the Scatter is strictly for adults. We do not produce or promote gambling-related content for minors, and we actively support safer gambling initiatives to ensure our coverage is enjoyed responsibly by those aged 18 and over.
How can someone gamble responsibly?
Responsible gambling means setting personal limits, never chasing losses, and treating gambling purely as entertainment. Players should never gamble more than they can afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, it’s important to seek support.
Where can people get help if gambling becomes a problem?
Anyone worried about their gambling can contact the National Gambling Helpline for free, confidential support. More resources are available at gambleaware.org.