Bruno Mars and Las Vegas: those US$50 million debt rumours turned out to be false, per MGM – but the singer seems to love Sin City, from his Park MGM millions to opening The Pinky Ring bar there

Mar 25 , 2024

Bruno Mars at the launch of his bar The Pinky Ring in Las Vegas, in February. Photo: @brunomars/Instagram

NewsNation dropped a ‘Grenade’ in the music world with its viral report claiming the pop star was US$50 million in debt to MGM – old videos of Mars talking about gambling to James Corden didn’t help

But MGM debunked the rumours, emphasising its long, respectful partnership with Mars – the Grammy winner was the second after Lady Gaga to make over US$50 million from a Park MGM residency

Earlier this month, “Uptown Funk” and “Grenade” hitmaker Bruno Mars found himself the subject of rumours claiming that he not only had a gambling problem, but had also amassed massive debt amounting to an estimated US$50 million.

But MGM Resorts International (MGM), the company he allegedly owed the money to, has slammed the claims, while at the same time solidifying their long partnership with the musician.

Here is how it all went down.

Bruno Mars’ rumoured MGM debt drama

Bruno Mars, wearing one of his made-to-measure Giorgio Armani suits in 2022. Photo: @brunomars/Instagram

MGM pooh-poohed reports that Mars, 38, was in debt. According to Billboard, the entertainment company said that its relationship with the musician “is long-standing and rooted in mutual respect.” Back in 2016, Mars announced a long-term deal with MGM, which resulted in his Vegas residency at the Park MGM.

In mid-March, TV network NewsNation published a report claiming that Mars was in US$50 million debt with the company. The story went viral, sparking concern for the beloved musician. In the report, a source was quoted as saying, “MGM basically own him,” because of the debt he had allegedly racked up.

Recently beleaguered, internationally known singer-songwriter and musician, Bruno Mars, posing with legendary US electric guitar maker Fender’s limited-edition Bruno Mars Stratocaster, in November 2023. Photo: @brunomars/Instagram

Old videos of Mars then resurfaced, in which he said he used to play poker to pay the bills, which only added fuel to the fire. These clips were from a “Carpool Karaoke” scene with US chat-show host James Corden seven years ago.

But MGM’s statement clearly explains its partnership with Mars, adding, “Together, we are excited to continue creating unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

His Vegas connection

Bruno Mars snapped partying in his new cocktail and jazz lounge The Pinky Ring, which opened Las Vegas, in February 2024. Photo: @thepinkyring/Instagram