Chad Brown

Chad Brown was an American professional poker player born on August 13, 1961, who lived in Las Vegas, Nevada. He gained recognition for his poker skills, amassing over $3.6 million in live tournament earnings throughout his career. One of his notable achievements came in July 2007 when he finished in 2nd place at the 38th World Series of Poker, earning his best live cash of $324,777.

In addition to his poker career, Brown was also an American actor and color commentator. He was known by the nickname “Downtown” and was sponsored by PokerStars, reflecting his prominence in the poker community. During the early 1990s, he co-hosted the NBC television series Caesar’s Challenge, further showcasing his passion for the game.

Sadly, Chad Brown passed away in July 2014 after a long battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy in both the poker and entertainment worlds.

Chad Brown: Early Life

Chad Brown was born on August 13, 1961, in Manhattan, New York City. He spent his early years growing up in the Bronx, where he learned to play poker in Italian cafes. Before embarking on his poker career, Brown pursued other interests, playing minor league baseball and later working as a model and actor in Hollywood.

In 1993, he transitioned to professional poker, quickly making a name for himself by competing at the highest levels of the game. His dedication and skill led to significant recognition, and in 2006, he was honored as Bluff Magazine’s Player of the Year.

Throughout his life, Brown also had personal experiences that shaped him. He married French-American poker player Vanessa Rousso, but the couple separated in early 2012.

Chad Brown Battling With Cancer

In 2011, Chad Brown was diagnosed with liposarcoma, a rare type of cancer that forms tumors in fat cells within deep soft tissue. Despite the challenges of his diagnosis, he demonstrated remarkable strength by having a large tumor removed from his abdomen. Shortly after, he continued to compete in various tournaments, showcasing his resilience. Notably, he won a $2,000 event at the Wynn Classic later that year.

Although he experienced significant weight loss and became almost unrecognizable, he remained active in poker. In January 26th, 2014, he placed second in a side event at the WPT Borgata Winter Poker Open and finished 26th in the Championship Event of that festival, marking the last cash of his career.

Chad Brown: Live Tournament Participation

Chad Brown’s first recorded live cash occurred in April 1993, he entered a $1,500 Limit Hold’em event at the 24th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. There, he finished 11th and cashed $6,624.

Later, in February 2006, he participated in the $10,000 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the World Poker Tour (WPT) Bay 101 Shooting Star in San Jose. In this event, he placed 6th and took home $200,000.

Following this, in April 2006, Brown played in the $25,000 + 500 WPT Championship at the Fourth Annual Five-Star World Poker Classic in Las Vegas. He finished 9th and earned $205,040.

In addition, in March 2007, he took part in the $25,000 No Limit Hold’em event at the NBC National Heads-Up Championship in Las Vegas. He achieved 2nd place and cashed $250,000.

Moreover, in July 2007, he competed in the $5,000 World Championship No Limit Deuce to Seven Draw at the 38th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. There, he again finished 2nd and earned $324,777.

Then, in September 2009, Brown experienced success at the Gulf Coast Poker Championship in Biloxi, winning the $5,000 + 150 No Limit Hold’em Championship Event. He took home $225,567 for his 1st place finish.

His final appearance was in January 2014, he entered the $3,300 + 200 WPT Borgata Winter Poker Open Championship in Atlantic City. He finished 26th and cashed $17,357.

Conclusion

Chad Brown’s journey through poker and entertainment left an indelible mark on both industries, showcasing his exceptional talent and resilience. Despite battling cancer, he continued to compete and inspire others until the end of his life. His legacy lives on through his remarkable achievements and the lasting impact he made in the poker community.