FanDuel TV has launched The Comeback With Craig Carton, aimed at raising awareness about problem gambling and supporting recovery efforts. Hosted by Craig Carton, the show features personal stories from individuals grappling with gambling addiction, aiming to reduce stigma and highlight available resources for support.
The premiere episode, available on YouTube and FanDuel TV Extra, showcases former NBA player Randy Livingston, who recounts his struggles with gambling addiction, his lowest points, and his pathway to recovery. His wife, Anita Ondine Smith, joins him to discuss the warning signs she noticed and the impact on their marriage. Both Randy and Anita have recently become FanDuel responsible gaming ambassadors as part of their commitment to this cause.
The initiative also supports the launch of Trusted Voices: Conversations About Betting, which equips parents, guardians, and coaches with tools to educate young individuals on gambling risks and the support services available to them. New episodes of The Comeback will air monthly on Mondays at 10:00 am ET through FanDuel TV Extra and their YouTube channel. Audience members can also subscribe to the show on Substack to receive updates and resources.
Craig Carton, recognized as FanDuel’s first national responsible gaming ambassador since 2021, has been instrumental in promoting initiatives such as the Responsible Gaming College Tour. This educational program focuses on informing college students about the potential risks associated with gambling.
“I understand the impact gambling addiction can have on lives,” said Craig Carton. “The road to recovery isn’t easy, but my mission is to inspire hope and remind everyone seeking help of the path to regaining control.”
Cory Fox, FanDuel’s Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Sustainability, emphasized the show’s goal of fostering open dialogue to combat the stigma surrounding problem gambling. “We want to educate our audience on what the warning signs are and be comfortable asking for help,” he stated.
The launch of The Comeback coincides with rising scrutiny of legal sports betting across the United States. The industry has faced criticism during high-profile gambling scandals, prompting lawmakers to propose regulations like the SAFE Bet Act, which addresses sports betting-related public health issues and advertising practices.
“We aim to own the narrative surrounding gambling addiction,” Fox commented. The new series, featuring open conversations, not only supports recovery stories but also provides practical tools and insights for viewers struggling with gambling addiction.
“The purpose of this show is to let people see the depth of what irresponsible gambling can lead to,” Carton elaborated. He noted the irony of partnering with one of the largest gambling platforms to highlight such issues, but he believes this approach is necessary. By exploring both the struggles and the successes of recovering addicts, the show is creating space for candid discussions around gambling.
With the visible presence of programs promoting responsible gaming, FanDuel and its allies are working to create not just awareness, but effective solutions to mitigate the issues surrounding gambling addiction. Their recent launch of the Responsible Online Gambling Association signifies their commitment to fostering responsible practices across the industry.
Carton, who has undergone his recovery and become an advocate for responsible gambling, aims to leverage FanDuel's extensive reach to "help people, warn people, and show people the signs of problem gambling.” Through monthly episodes, the conversation on gambling will continue to evolve, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own habits and the resources available for safeguarding against addiction.
The intersection of entertainment and advocacy represented by The Comeback With Craig Carton stands as a model for how brands can address public health issues without shying away from the legitimate narratives of those affected. Even as the U.S. grapples with the ramifications of expanded sports betting, FanDuel is leading the charge to support individuals facing gambling addiction.
Each episode not only provides personal reflections on addiction but also offers strategies for recovery and resilience applicable to all. The dialogue initiated through this program is expected to resonate with many, reminding them they are not alone on their journeys.
“Our hope for The Comeback With Craig Carton is to raise awareness of problem gambling and to help normalize these discussions,” Fox added. Expectations are high for the series to not just entertain but to educate and inspire change within the broader gambling community.
