Poker has always had a seductive allure for those who like to live on the edge.

It has been depicted in films such as Ocean’s Eleven, The Sting and Rounders as a game for risk-takers and daredevils, the powerful and those seeking power, the mega-rich and underdog swindlers. And, naturally, poker has attracted a number of celebrity fans who know their Razz from their Texas hold ‘em.

Unlike other forms of gambling, poker has maintained an air of glamour, thanks in a large part to Hollywood. And the game has, accordingly, attracted a number of A-list celebrity fans from across the pond.

LA golden boys Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Tobey Maguire, for example, have all been reported as regular players in high-stakes cash games.

But Brit celebrities have also demonstrated their commitment to the tables. Between 2003 and 2005 the UK television series Celebrity Poker Club gave British celebs the chance to battle it out across the felt.

Who is the best celebrity poker player? TV presenter Victoria Coren and the inventor Sir Clive Sinclair were amongst the series winners. And, proving that poker appeals to people from all walks of life, the list of semi-finalists included cheeky Londoner Keith Allen, aristocratic food writer Tom Parker Bowles and Conservative MP Zac Goldsmith.

Demonstrating that sports players can also turn their hand to games of intellect, professional footballer turned club manager Teddy Sheringham has competed in poker tours across Europe, earning hundreds of thousands in prizes. Snooker players Steve Davis and Jimmy White have also played together in televised tournaments.

Of course, you don’t have to be famous to enjoy poker (and, indeed, fame won’t count for anything if you can’t convincingly bluff your way out of a tight spot). With online casinos making it easier than ever to play and connect with other players in your spare time, day or night, you can find out for yourself why these celebrities get such a thrill out of poker.