Harry Potter Star Rhys Ifans Plays Charity Poker Event

August 6th, 2014 | by Greg Shaun

Rhys Ifans helped do his bit for a cancer charity with a poker cameo in Swansea. (Image: fanpop.com)

Hollywood actor Rhys Ifans recently took to the felt in a bid to raise money for a good cause via a charity poker tournament in his homeland.Â The Welsh actor, who is best known for his roles in high-profile films such as Notting Hill, Harry Potter and The Amazing Spider-Man, took to the tables in Swansea, Wales to aid cancer charity Latch after an invite from the event’s organizer, Jamie Lloyd.

A Personal Mission

Having come through a cancer battle of her, Lloyd put together the tournament with the help of Barry Harrison and Swansea’s Grosvenor Casino.Â And after raising $5,000 in 2013, Lloyd wanted to add some extra spice to her event, so she decided to call in a favor from producer and writer Kevin Allen. Being a friend of the family, Allen was happy to oblige and asked Ifans if he’d like to join the action as well. It’s all about connections in Hollywood, after all.

And like many thespians from LaLa Land, the Welsh actor has been known to enjoy a few rounds of poker in the past and was more than happy to do his bit for charity and put his acting skills to the test.

Celebrity Connections

In addition to Ifans joining the action, Lloyd also managed to secure a slew of sporting memorabilia to give away as prizes.Â On top of Welsh rugby player Dan Biggar’s training jersey, players were also able to compete for a boxing glove autographed by Mike Tyson and a pair of football boots signed by Swansea players, Chico and Rangel.

Commenting on her event, Lloyd explained that Ifans is the latest in a long line of celebrities she’s met over the years. Aside from the Welshman, Lloyd’s charitable endeavors have seen her make contact with Larry King and John Travolta, as well as the late Princess Diana.

Poker-Playing Celebrities

Rhys Ifans might be the latest Hollywood actor to grace the felt, but he’s not the only onscreen star to play poker. Thanks to the recent release of Molly’s Game, a tell-all account of the richest private games in the world, we know that Tobey Maguire and Ben Affleck are among Hollywood’s most passionate players.

As well as a string of US celebrities that enjoy the game, a host of international sports stars are also known for their exploits at the poker table. Ronaldo, Shane Warne, Boris Becker and Rafa Nadal are just some of the ex-sportsmen who regularly take part in both charity and professional poker tournaments across the world.