35 Facts About Frank Rosenthal

Early Life and Background

Frank Rosenthal, a name synonymous with Las Vegas, had an intriguing life filled with many twists and turns. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years and background.

1. Born on June 12, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois, Frank Rosenthal grew up in a Jewish family.
2. His father was a produce wholesaler, which gave Frank an early exposure to the business world.
3. Rosenthal attended Senn High School in Chicago, where he developed a keen interest in sports.
4. He was a talented athlete, excelling in baseball and basketball during his high school years.
5. Frank's fascination with gambling began at a young age, often placing bets on sports events with his friends.

Rise in the Gambling World

Frank Rosenthal's journey into the gambling world is nothing short of legendary. His innovative ideas and sharp mind made him a prominent figure in Las Vegas.

6. In the 1950s, Rosenthal moved to Miami, where he started working as a sports handicapper.
7. He quickly gained a reputation for his accurate predictions and deep knowledge of sports.
8. Frank was known for his meticulous record-keeping, which helped him make informed betting decisions.
9. His success in Miami caught the attention of the Chicago Outfit, a powerful organized crime group.
10. The Chicago Outfit recruited Rosenthal to oversee their gambling operations in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Stardom

Frank Rosenthal's impact on Las Vegas is still felt today. His innovative ideas transformed the city's gambling scene.

11. In the 1970s, Rosenthal became the manager of the Stardust, Fremont, Marina, and Hacienda casinos.
12. He introduced the concept of sports betting parlors within casinos, revolutionizing the industry.
13. Frank was the first to implement computer technology for setting betting lines, ensuring accuracy and fairness.
14. He also introduced female blackjack dealers, which was a groundbreaking move at the time.
15. Rosenthal's attention to detail and customer service made his casinos incredibly popular.

Personal Life and Relationships

Frank Rosenthal's personal life was as colorful as his professional career. His relationships and lifestyle often made headlines.

16. Frank married Geri McGee, a former showgirl, in 1969.
17. The couple had two children, a son named Steven and a daughter named Stephanie.
18. Geri's extravagant lifestyle and infidelity strained their marriage, leading to a tumultuous relationship.
19. Rosenthal's friendship with mobster Anthony Spilotro added to the drama in his personal life.
20. The couple eventually divorced in 1981, but their story inspired the movie "Casino."

Legal Troubles and Controversies

Frank Rosenthal's life was not without its share of legal troubles and controversies. His association with organized crime often put him in the spotlight.

21. In 1963, Rosenthal was called to testify before the Senate's McClellan Committee on organized crime.
22. He invoked the Fifth Amendment 37 times during his testimony, refusing to answer questions.
23. Frank survived a car bombing in 1982, which many believe was an assassination attempt by the mob.
24. The Nevada Gaming Commission blacklisted Rosenthal, banning him from working in casinos.
25. Despite the ban, Frank continued to influence the gambling world through his consulting work.

Later Years and Legacy

Frank Rosenthal's later years were marked by a quieter life, but his legacy in the gambling world remains significant.

26. After leaving Las Vegas, Rosenthal moved to California and then to Florida.
27. He hosted a sports betting show called "The Frank Rosenthal Show," which aired in the 1980s.
28. Frank was an avid horse racing enthusiast, often attending races and placing bets.
29. He remained a consultant for various casinos and gambling operations until his death.
30. Rosenthal passed away on October 13, 2008, at the age of 79.

Pop Culture and Media

Frank Rosenthal's life story has been immortalized in pop culture and media, ensuring his legacy lives on.

31. The 1995 movie "Casino," directed by Martin Scorsese, is based on Rosenthal's life.
32. Robert De Niro portrayed the character Sam "Ace" Rothstein, inspired by Frank Rosenthal.
33. The film highlights Rosenthal's rise and fall in the Las Vegas gambling scene.
34. Frank's life has been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and articles.
35. His innovative contributions to the gambling industry continue to be studied and admired by enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Frank Rosenthal's Legacy

Frank Rosenthal's life was a whirlwind of gambling, showbiz, and controversy. His innovative approach to running casinos in Las Vegas left a lasting impact on the industry. Despite his legal troubles and brushes with danger, Rosenthal's story remains fascinating. His ability to turn a casino into a well-oiled machine showcased his genius, while his personal life added layers of intrigue.

Rosenthal's legacy lives on through books, movies, and documentaries that continue to captivate audiences. His story serves as a reminder of the complex world behind the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. Whether admired or criticized, Frank Rosenthal's influence on the gambling world is undeniable. His life, filled with highs and lows, offers a glimpse into the unique and often tumultuous world of casino operations.