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Betting newsPaddy Power origin story heads to the big screen
A new feature film will dramatize the wild rise of the famous betting brand.
Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 3 November 2026
Hollywood is bringing the history of one of the most famous betting brands to the screen. A new movie will follow how three Irish bookmakers joined forces to build a global gambling powerhouse. The film draws from a book written about how the company grew into a giant.
The founders and the merger
The story goes back to the late eighties when three separate groups combined their businesses. They quickly made a name for themselves by using shocking advertising and bold publicity stunts. Instead of following traditional rules, the bookmaker pushed boundaries with cheeky marketing campaigns and sharp humor.
Star studded cast and crew
Top Irish actors including Colm Meaney and Aidan Gillen are set to star in the production. Matt Lipsey from Ted Lasso will direct the movie based on a script by multiple writers. One of the cast members even appeared in promotional commercials for the betting brand in past years.
Global growth and online betting
The company eventually expanded far past its local shops by launching an online platform at the turn of the century. Years later, the brand merged with Betfair before becoming part of Flutter Entertainment. Producers hope the movie captures the gritty ambition and risk behind the brand history.
Punters can expect a fascinating look at the risk and ambition that built a betting giant.