Ben Affleck's celebrity poker match for COVID-19: Date, time, where to watch, participants and more
In an attempt to combat the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis and help out those in need, actor Ben Affleck is teaming up with his A-list Hollywood friends to raise funds for Feeding America.
However, this is no usual fundraiser. The Oscar-winning actor will face off against his celeb pals like Tom Brady, Matt Damon, and Adam Levine in a friendly poker match this Saturday, with all the proceeds going to the charity.
Tournament date and time
The tournament will be played digitally this Saturday, April 11 at 11 am PT.
Where to watch
Respecting the social distancing and quarantine guidelines amidst the lockdown, the participants have decided to broadcast their tournament on the gaming and live streaming platform Twitch.
What is it for
Affleck revealed the upcoming event in an Instagram post on Friday, April 10, captioned: "Excited to announce that I have joined forces with @FeedingAmerica, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, to raise money for folks who need it most. Join me and some familiar faces (including @tombrady, @bryancranston, @adamlevine, @sarahkatesilverman, @_cherylhines, Tobey Maguire, Jon Hamm & Jason Bateman) as we face off in a friendly poker tournament."
Following in the footsteps of the several celebrities and business moguls who have donated to the coronavirus relief funds, Affleck also noted: "We’ve already raised over $1 million, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Feeding America."
The former Batman actor also added: "Right now, their work is more critical than ever before so I hope you’ll be able to join us and watch along live [...]"
Hollywood participants
As 51-year-old Affleck revealed himself, the game night will see him alongside some of his closest friends from the industry, namely: Tom Brady, Bryan Cranston, Adam Levine, Sarah Silverman, Chryl Hines, Tobey Maguire, Jon Hamm, and Jason Bateman.
Deadline has reported that Matt Damon will be taking part in the tournament too.
Game of the night
According to Deadline, the game for the night will be 'Texas Hold 'Em': "Two cards, known as hole cards, are dealt face down to each player, and then five community cards are dealt face up in three stages. The stages consist of a series of three cards, later an additional single card, and a final card. 1 million starting chips and 1,000 / 2,000 blinds with 200 ante. Each level has 6 minutes and 20 levels of late registration."
Hosts and commentators
The outlet also reported that professional poker commentators Justin Kelly and Michael Loncar will host the game.