Photo Caption: Actor Kevin Pollak made the final table of the Main Event, as a spectator that is. The poker enthusiast made it all the way to Day Five in this year's championship. He came by the Rio to check out tonight's action.
Actor Kevin Pollak is perhaps best known as a character actor. He's worked with the best in the world in films including “Casino” and “A Few Good Men", but Pollak's most surprising performance may have come in this year's WSOP Main Event Championship, when he finished in 134th place.
Pollak lasted all the way until Day Five, an astonishing accomplishment for the self-described novice poker players. He outlasted more than 6,400 players en route to a finish that was far more satisfying than than just about anything he's accomplished either on or away from the silver screen.
“I had no business finishing as high as I did,” the humble Pollak revealed tableside, as he watched the eight players still alive in poker's World Championship. “I was playing against professionals. These guys know how to win. I was playing just to survive.”
No doubt, Pollak could take great pride in accomplishing what few have ever done – move into serious contention for a deep run in the Main Event. Featured prominently in ESPN's extensive coverage as one of the most popular performers at feature tables, Pollak clowned his way to an unforgettable finish, and just as memorable an experience that provided a moment of great satisfaction that has been filled with thrilling encounters.
“I hope to play in the Main Event every year I can,” Pollak confided. “I'm not sure I'll ever make it to something like this (the Main Event finale), but I'm sure going to go and enjoy the moment. That's what it's all about."
Pollak's new book, coming out soon is called "How I Slept My Way to the Middle.” Seriously.