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A federal class-action lawsuit was filed on December 31, 2025, in Virginia, alleging that Stake.us operates as an illegal online casino, misleading U.S. users into believing it was legal to gamble real money on the platform.
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Plaintiffs LaShawnna Ridley and Tiffany Hines claim that Stake.us, marketed as a “social casino,” allowed real money wagering disguised as virtual currency play, contrary to its advertisements stating no real money gambling was offered.
Drake and Adin Ross are named as defendants alongside Stake.us, accused of being “zealous” promoters who misrepresented the site’s nature while benefiting financially from their promotional activities, including live-streamed gambling.
The lawsuit alleges that Drake and Ross used Stake’s internal “tipping” system to disguise large cash transfers and even fund fraudulent streaming efforts to artificially inflate the popularity of Drake’s music.
The plaintiffs seek at least $5 million in damages, as well as a court order to prevent Stake.us from continuing its alleged misleading practices, emphasizing consumer protection and accountability for celebrity endorsements.
The lawsuit arrives amid a broader regulatory crackdown on online gambling platforms that blend social gaming and real-money gambling, particularly targeting younger and vulnerable audiences influenced by celebrity promotions.
Drake has been associated with Stake through a reported $100 million endorsement deal and has previously faced similar lawsuits related to the platform, while Ross has publicly dismissed the lawsuits as “bullshit” during a livestream.
As the case progresses, it may set a significant precedent regarding the regulation of celebrity gambling endorsements and the responsibilities of influencers in promoting online gaming platforms.
