Bruno Mars sparked a wave of fan reactions this week after appearing onstage with Blackpink's Rosé for a surprise rendition of "APT." His comment has fueled speculation that he is nearing the end of a prolonged financial struggle.
Key Takeaways
- Bruno Mars has made another joke about his rumored gambling debt on social media.
- Reports in 2024 suggested the 15-Grammy winner was $50 million in debt to MGM Grand after playing table games.
- MGM Resorts International denies the debt allegations, while Mars has repeatedly referenced the debt in social media posts.
In an Instagram post following the performance, Mars wrote, "Almost out of debt. BehhhhhBehhhhh!!! Preciate (sic) You ROSAAAAYYYYYY!!!!!" The message comes against the backdrop of continued fascination with the singer's alleged financial troubles, which are traced to gambling debt.
The 15-time Grammy Award-winning singer described financial conditions humorously. In August 2024, Mars reshared posts about a Lady Gaga collaboration titled "Die With A Smile," with fans speculating the release was intended to help generate revenue for Mars.
Earlier this year, when Mars became the first artist to reach 150 million monthly listeners on Spotify, he again joked about his debt, writing, "KEEP STREAMING, I'll be out of debt in no time."
Mars has been a headline act at the MGM Grand's Park MGM Dolby Live venue and has expanded his presence with the Pinky Ring lounge at the Bellagio, a project tied to his signature brand of retro showmanship.
MGM denies Bruno Mars debt rumors amid lucrative partnership
Although speculation over Bruno Mars' alleged debts persists, MGM Resorts International has publicly rejected claims that the singer owes the company money.
The rumors resurfaced in connection with reports suggesting Mars makes $90 million annually through his Las Vegas residency deal, earning around $1.5 million per performance after taxes and deductions.
One anonymous source claimed that much of this income was being used to pay off debt, though no formal financial documentation supports this allegation.
MGM issued a firm denial of these claims in a statement provided to Billboard. "We're proud of our relationship with Bruno Mars, one of the world's most thrilling and dynamic performers," the statement read.
MGM, likewise, boasted Mars' value to its programming inventory, his own shows at Dolby Live at Park MGM, and his proprietary lounge venue, Pinky Ring, at the Bellagio.
It stated that the company maintained a respectful, long-term association with Mars. “Any speculation otherwise is completely false; he has no debt with MGM," said the spokesperson.
The statement also reiterated MGM's goal of supporting the alliance, mentioning Mars' ability to attract foreign tourists and bring high-impact presentations to Las Vegas. That is crucial, as many Las Vegas casinos are seeing drops in handle due to declining tourism.
