The Celebrity Poker Tour (CPT) continues to gain momentum as it prepares for its upcoming Invitational XII, a high-profile poker event featuring a $50,000 prize pool. The tournament will be hosted at the PokerGO Studio in Las Vegas and is expected to feature well-known celebrities and athletes including Paul Pierce, Kendrick Perkins, and Dixie D’Amelio, bringing together entertainment and competitive poker on one stage.
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Over the past few years, CPT has built a strong digital presence, attracting millions of viewers across streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube. However, beyond the glamour and viral moments, the tour carries a deeper backstory shaped by its founder, Blake Wynn, who comes from one of the most influential families in Las Vegas casino history. His uncle, casino pioneer Steve Wynn, played a major role in transforming Las Vegas into a world-class entertainment and hospitality destination.
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In a previous conversation with PokerNews, Blake Wynn discussed how influential figures in his life, including Steve Wynn and entertainment producer Molly Bloom, inspired the structure and vision behind the Celebrity Poker Tour. He also shared an unexpected behind-the-scenes story connected to one of Las Vegas’ most famous attractions—the Bellagio fountains.
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Inside the Story Behind the Bellagio Fountains
During an interview at WSOP Paradise in the Bahamas, Wynn explained how creative collaboration helped shape one of Las Vegas’ most iconic landmarks. According to him, when the Bellagio fountains were first built, the concept was still in its early stages and not yet open to the public.
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“At the beginning, there was a barrier around the fountains,” Wynn explained. “The water system and music were in place, but everything was still hidden because it wasn’t ready for public viewing. Then two creative minds were invited to see it.”
Those visitors were acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg and choreographer Kenny Ortega.
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Wynn recalled that initial reactions were not what Steve Wynn expected. Spielberg suggested that the experience needed more sensory impact, especially through sound design. His idea led to integrating underwater speakers so that the sound of water and music would feel more immersive and powerful for viewers.
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Kenny Ortega, on the other hand, focused on movement and storytelling. He proposed that the fountains should be treated like performers on a stage, turning water into choreographed “dancers” that move in rhythm with music. This creative direction eventually transformed the fountains into a fully synchronized water performance.
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After months of development and engineering adjustments, the redesigned fountain show debuted with a dramatic performance that left a lasting impression. Blake Wynn shared that Steve Wynn was deeply moved when he first witnessed the final result, describing it as one of the rare moments where he felt emotionally overwhelmed by his own creation.
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Influence Behind the Celebrity Poker Tour Vision
Blake Wynn often highlights that the same principle of surrounding yourself with exceptional talent also applies to the way he builds the Celebrity Poker Tour. He credits much of his understanding of hospitality and guest experience to his uncle, Steve Wynn.
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According to Blake Wynn, CPT is designed not just as a poker competition, but as an experience where celebrities feel genuinely comfortable and valued. Every detail—from the environment to player interaction—is carefully managed to ensure participants enjoy the event beyond just the game itself.
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He also acknowledges the influence of Molly Bloom, known for organizing exclusive high-stakes poker gatherings that later inspired Hollywood storytelling. Her early guidance helped Wynn understand how important personalized guest experience is in high-profile poker environments.
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Attention to Detail Defines CPT Experience
One of the key elements that sets the Celebrity Poker Tour apart is its focus on personalization. Wynn has mentioned that the team goes as far as training staff to recognize players by name, understand their preferences, and anticipate their needs during events.
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Whether it is preferred drinks, food choices, or comfort-level considerations, CPT aims to create an atmosphere where guests feel recognized and appreciated. This approach has helped the tour stand out in the growing world of entertainment-based poker events.
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Expanding the Celebrity Poker Tour Global Presence
The Celebrity Poker Tour is also expanding beyond the United States. Following its successful international debut in the Bahamas, CPT is continuing its collaboration with major poker brands, including upcoming joint events with the World Series of Poker scheduled for later this year.
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As the tour grows, Blake Wynn emphasizes that its evolution is about more than just poker—it is about building a global entertainment platform where celebrities, athletes, and fans can connect through the game in a premium environment.
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“It feels good to finally see it evolve into a real touring brand,” Wynn noted, highlighting the long-term vision behind the project.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Celebrity Poker Tour?
A poker event series featuring celebrities and athletes competing in live tournaments for entertainment and prizes.
Q2. Who founded CPT?
Blake Wynn, nephew of casino mogul Steve Wynn.
Q3. What is the Bellagio fountains story about?
It explains how creative ideas from Spielberg and Kenny Ortega helped shape the iconic fountain show in Las Vegas.
Q4. Where are CPT events held?
Mainly at the PokerGO Studio in Las Vegas, with some international events.
Q5. Why is CPT popular?
It mixes celebrity entertainment, poker competition, and premium live-event experiences.
