UPDATE: Canadian rapper Drake and popular streamer Adin Ross are facing a new class-action lawsuit over their controversial partnership with online gambling platform Stake. Filed on December 31 in federal court in Virginia, the lawsuit accuses the duo of engaging in fraudulent marketing practices that mislead customers about the nature of the platform.
Plaintiffs LaShawnna Ridley and Tiffany Hines claim that Stake operates as one of the largest illegal online casinos, asserting that since at least 2022, users have been misled into believing they were using “fake money” when in fact, they were spending real cash. The lawsuit alleges that Stake falsely advertises itself as a site that does “not offer real money gambling,” creating a facade that has deceived many.
The plaintiffs state, “Users buy gold coins buried under Stake Cash,” which can be converted into actual U.S. dollars. This contradicts Stake’s marketing claims that no purchase is necessary to engage with their games. Ridley and Hines describe Drake and Ross as “zealous” and “paid” promoters who attempt to mask the true nature of their financial involvement with the platform.
According to the lawsuit, both entertainers participated in live-streamed gambling, wagering substantial amounts of money that was allegedly provided by Stake. “Though Drake and Ross purported to be gambling with their own Stake Cash, it was in fact provided to them by the house,” the lawsuit states.
In a shocking twist, the complaint also alleges that the duo utilized Stake’s internal “tipping” system for artificial music streaming. An unspecified sum, including a public tip of $100,000, is claimed to have been used to inflate streams of Drake’s music through fraudulent methods.
As of now, neither Drake nor Ross has made an official comment regarding the lawsuit. This development follows a previous class-action suit filed against them and Stake’s parent company, Sweepstakes Limited, raising further questions about the legality and ethicality of their promotional practices.
This urgent legal battle highlights the growing scrutiny around celebrity endorsements in the burgeoning online gambling industry. Consumers are increasingly aware of the potential risks involved, especially when high-profile figures are linked to platforms that may not be operating transparently.
With significant implications for both Drake and Ross, as well as Stake, this lawsuit could reshape how influencers interact with online gambling businesses. As more details emerge, this case is poised to be a focal point in discussions about accountability and consumer protection in the digital age.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the legal proceedings unfold.
