Kalshi’s latest ad is betting on star power, but fans are not buying it.
The prediction market giant’s latest campaign taps A-list actor Timothée Chalamet for a one-minute video advertisement featuring the actor in a series of nonsensical and non-Kalshi-related scenarios. But, despite being directed by Oscar-winning Swedish cinematographer Linus Sandgren, fans on social media seem to not be embracing the video.
“Delete this bro we were rooting for you,” a user responded to the video posted by Chalamet’s X account. Another added, “you are a rich and famous actor, why are you promoting trash?”
The minute-long video features Chalamet in three different scenes: first, he is a dentist’s office getting a procedure done while trying to pronounce the word “Kalshi,” then, he is seen jumping while in a bedroom trying to tap the ceiling with his head to stop the music coming from above. Lastly, Chalamet appears in a red-walled music store playing the piano. At the end of every scene, Kalshi’s logo appears in white, no further explanation given.
The video, which has over 6 million views and almost 2,000 replies, is being flooded by fans with concerns over Chalamet partnering with the prediction market—calling out how addicting betting is and questioning whether or not Chalamet was selling out.
“Ruining a multi-year generational run for Kalshi is crazy,” a user said on X. Another said “this completely cancels out all of the goodwill you have garnered over the last few years.”
“I seriously think we need to viciously bully any celebrity who sells out to take a Kalshi, Polymarket, or any type of online gambling ad. Gross, manipulative, and dangerous thing to promote to your huge audience.” another added.
Many fans took to referencing recent comments from the actor while accepting his 2025 Screen Actors Guild Award. During the speech, Chalamet said he was in the “pursuit of greatness,” comments which fans point out clash with the Kalshi deal.
“A Kalshi ad? I thought you wanted greatness man,” a user said on X.
Others referenced Chalamet’s recent viral appearances at the Knicks games—which have become notorious for the sky high ticket prices.
“Finally figured out how timothee chalamet was affording courtside knicks tickets,” one user added.
But most used the space to roast the actor, particularly his lack of an Academy Award, which he lost earlier this year despite being nominated for his role in Marty Supreme.
“Timothée Chalamet doing Kalshi ads. Yep, Michael B Jordan deserved that Oscar over him,” a user said.
Another added, “Bro is never gonna win an Oscar, you can bet on that on @Kalshi.”