Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
Jul 10, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) celebrates in the dugout after scoring a run against the Detroit Tigers in the fourth inning at Comerica Park.
Philadelphia Phillies superstar Bryce Harper found himself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons recently when he was tied to a scandal that involved FanDuel seemingly preying on a gambling addict.
The sports-betting giant reportedly sent Terry Thompson, a gambling addict who lost $1.5 million with the company, several perks, including expensive champagne, Super Bowl tickets, and a personalized video from Harper to he and his young son, in order to convince him to keep placing bets with the company.
However, shortly after the story broke, questions began to arise about how much Harper, a devout Mormon who abstains from gambling in his personal life, actually knew about his involvement.
On Monday morning, ahead of his involvement in the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby, Harper took to social media to share his side of the story.
@BryceHarper3 on Instagram
Bryce Harper Instagram story addressing FanDuel scandal
Bryce Harper Says He Was Misled By FanDuel In Scandal Involving Gambling Addict
“In response to a recent article in The Philadelphia Inquirer, I want to provide the following facts. I joined Cameo to engage with fans through paid personalized videos. What happened here went beyond anything I knew about or approved,” Harper said in a statement on his Instagram story. “In November 2024, someone identifying themselves only as ‘Bryttanni; submitted an order through Cameo for a personal ‘holiday video for Terry.’ Cameo had a separate category for business video requests, and at the time, I did not know this video would be used for commercial purposes.
“The request included a short script. I read it in good faith. FanDuel then put its own logo on the video and used it as a gambling promotion. I did not know FanDuel would do this, I did not consent to it, and FanDuel had no right to do it.
“Had I known FanDuel’s true intent, I would not have made the video. The same is true had I known anything about Terry or his situation, or about any alleged ‘partnership’ between Cameo and FanDuel.
“Contrary to the Inquirer’s suggestion, l did not know the Cameo video would be used for a FanDuel VIP promotion, and I have no affiliation with FanDuel whatsoever. Counsel has directed me not to comment any further at this time.”
Harper also provided a picture of the initial Cameo request, which stated nothing about Thompson’s background.
@BryceHarper3 on Instagram
Bryce Harper image of Cameo request from FanDuel
Whether or not Harper pursues legal action remains to be seen. But it’s clear he’s unhappy with the company. And you have to imagine this will be the last time he uses Cameo, at least for a little while.