Molly’s Game: The Real Molly
Molly’s Game, directed by Aaron Sorkin and based on the true story of Molly Bloom, has captivated audiences with its portrayal of the high-stakes world of underground poker. This article delves into the life of the real Molly Bloom, exploring her journey from a young woman in college to a central figure in the world of high-stakes poker.
Early Life and Background
Molly Bloom was born on January 19, 1982, in New York City. She grew up in a wealthy family and attended the prestigious Harvard University. During her time at Harvard, Molly was a member of the Delta Gamma sorority and was known for her socialite lifestyle.
Year | Event |
---|---|
1982 | Born in New York City |
2000 | Graduated from Harvard University |
2003 | Started working at a law firm |
2004 | Met and started dating a professional poker player |
After graduating from Harvard, Molly worked at a law firm for a brief period before deciding to pursue her passion for poker. She met and started dating a professional poker player, which further fueled her interest in the game.
The Birth of the High-Stakes Poker Scene
Molly Bloom’s connection to the world of high-stakes poker began when she was introduced to a group of wealthy poker players. She quickly realized that there was a significant demand for high-stakes poker games in New York City, and she decided to capitalize on this opportunity.
Molly began organizing private poker games in her Manhattan apartment, inviting some of the biggest names in the poker world. Her events quickly gained a reputation for being exclusive and high-stakes, attracting players like Phil Ivey, Andy Bloch, and Jennifer Harman.
The FBI Investigation and Molly’s Betrayal
As Molly’s business grew, she became increasingly involved in the underground poker scene. However, her success also drew the attention of law enforcement. In 2011, the FBI launched an investigation into the high-stakes poker games, and Molly was forced to go into hiding.
After being caught by the FBI, Molly faced significant legal challenges. She was charged with money laundering and illegal gambling, but ultimately pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of conspiracy to promote gambling. As part of her plea deal, she agreed to cooperate with the government and testify against her former clients.
Molly’s Post-Conviction Life
After serving her sentence, Molly Bloom returned to the public eye with the release of her memoir, “Molly’s Game: From Hollywood’s Elite to Wall Street’s Billionaires 鈥?My Life as a High-Stakes Poker Dealer.” The book became a bestseller and was later adapted into the film “Molly’s Game,” starring Jessica Chastain as Molly Bloom.
Molly has since become an advocate for reforming the gambling industry and has spoken out about the dangers of addiction. She has also started a foundation to help those struggling with addiction and has written a second book, “The Poker Face of God: A Journey Through the World of High Stakes Poker,” which explores the spiritual aspects of her journey.
Legacy and Impact
Molly Bloom’s story has had a significant impact on the public’s perception of the world of high-stakes poker. Her memoir and the film adaptation have shed light on the dark side of the industry, while also highlighting the human element behind the high-stakes games.
Molly’s journey from a young woman in college to a central figure in the world of high-stakes poker is a testament to her resilience and determination. Her story continues to inspire others to pursue their passions, even in the face of adversity.