Archie Karas: The Legendary Greek Gambler Who Turned $50 Into $40 Million and Lost It All

Archie Karas, born Anargyros Karavourniotis on November 1, 1950, in Cephalonia, Greece, became a legendary figure in the gambling world. Known as “The Greek,” his life journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of gambling success is a story of ambition, risk, and loss.

Early Life and Path to America

Growing up in a poor family, Karas' father was a construction worker, and young Archie often gambled with marbles to avoid hunger. At 15, after a conflict with his father, Karas left home and worked as a seaman for two years. His path to the U.S. began when he arrived in Portland, Oregon, eventually making his way to Los Angeles at the age of 17.

In Los Angeles, he worked as a waiter and discovered his talent for pool, where he won significant sums by betting on games. His reputation grew, and he transitioned to poker, a game that would change his life forever.

The Legend of Archie Karas

Karas’ most famous achievement came in the 1990s when, after losing his entire fortune, he traveled to Las Vegas with just $50 in his pocket. Borrowing $10,000 from a friend, Karas went on an unprecedented winning streak. Over the next three years, he transformed that $50 into $40 million, winning at poker and Razz, making him a legend in the gambling world.

During this period, his skill and fearless approach made him a feared opponent at the table. His run, known as "The Run," became the stuff of legend, and Karas was compared to other great Greek gamblers like Nick the Greek and John Taramas.

Spectacular Fall and Casino Scandals

However, as fast as Karas rose, he fell just as hard. By 1995, he had lost the entire $40 million he had won. Karas continued gambling and encountered legal trouble later in his career. He was accused of marking blackjack decks and defrauding casinos, leading to his arrest in 2013. His name was eventually added to the infamous "Black Book," permanently banning him from all casinos.

Despite his downfall, Karas’ legend endures. He was never driven by the pursuit of money but by the thrill of the gamble. As he once said, "The good things you can't buy with money. A good friend you can't buy."

Archie Karas passed away in October 2024 at the age of 73, leaving behind a complex legacy as one of the most famous gamblers in history.

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