The Triple Threat: 7 Shocking Facts About Vincent Van Patten's Journey From Child Star To WPT Commentator And Pro Pickleball Player
Vincent Van Patten: A Comprehensive Biography and Profile
Vincent Van Patten’s life is a tapestry woven with threads of Hollywood royalty, professional sports, and high-stakes commentary. He is a member of the famous Van Patten family, which has a long and storied history in American entertainment.
- Full Name: Vincent Van Patten
- Born: October 17, 1957, in Bellerose, New York, U.S.
- Current Residence: Malibu, California.
- Father: Dick Van Patten (Actor).
- Mother: Pat Poole (Former June Taylor Dancer).
- Spouse: Eileen Davidson (Actress, married 2003).
- Children: Three sons: Jesse, Richard, and Vincent Jr.
- Primary Occupations: Actor, Writer, Professional Tennis Player (Former), World Poker Tour (WPT) Commentator.
- Years Active: 1960–present.
- Notable Achievements: ATP Tour Singles Title Winner, Career-High ATP Rank #26, Longest-running WPT Commentator.
The Unprecedented Career Pivot: From Child Star to Top 30 ATP Pro
Van Patten’s career began in the most traditional of ways for a member of his family: as a child actor in Hollywood. His start came early, landing roles on television at the age of nine.
He appeared in numerous TV shows, including guest-starring roles on classics like *The Young Lawyers* and *Nanny and the Professor* (credited as Vinnie Van Patten). His most notable early film role was in the 1973 Disney movie *Charley and the Angel*.
However, by the late 1970s, Van Patten made a dramatic and almost unheard-of pivot, leaving the world of acting to pursue a career in professional tennis.
The Rise of a Tennis Champion
The transition was not a mere hobby; it was a serious, successful career change. Van Patten quickly became a force on the ATP Tour, achieving a career-high world ranking of No. 26 in singles on November 2, 1981.
He showcased his elite talent by winning a singles title and accumulating significant prize money, totaling over $433,522 combined in singles and doubles. His most impressive victory came at the Seiko World Super Tennis tournament in 1981, where he defeated tennis legends like Vitas Gerulaitis and even the formidable John McEnroe en route to the title. This victory solidified his status as one of the few individuals to reach a top-tier professional ranking in a major sport after starting a career in Hollywood.
Following his tennis career, he returned to acting, starring in films such as *The Break* (1995) and the TV series *Cuts*.
The Voice of Poker: Dominating the World Poker Tour
The third major act in Vincent Van Patten’s professional life began when he found his niche in the world of high-stakes poker. His natural charisma and deep understanding of competitive strategy made him a perfect fit for the broadcast booth.
Van Patten is best known globally as the long-time host and commentator for the World Poker Tour (WPT). He has been a fixture in the WPT commentator booth for over 14 seasons, initially co-hosting alongside the late Mike Sexton, forming one of the most recognizable and beloved duos in poker broadcasting history.
His commentary style is characterized by his enthusiasm and his famous catchphrase, "The booyaa is in the air," which he uses to announce a major pot or a dramatic hand.
Beyond the microphone, Van Patten is an accomplished high-stakes cash game player himself, a fact that lends significant credibility to his analysis. He has hosted some of Hollywood's biggest home poker games, further cementing his connection to the game both on and off-screen.
Latest Projects: From Vegas to Pickleball in 2025
In his late 60s, Van Patten shows no signs of slowing down. His recent activities demonstrate a continued commitment to creating content and embracing new competitive challenges.
The Film *7 Days to Vegas*
One of his most significant recent creative ventures is the 2019 comedy film, *7 Days to Vegas*. Van Patten co-wrote and starred in the movie, which is based on a true story about a high-stakes, eccentric prop bet. The film features Van Patten as the lead, Duke, and co-stars his wife, Eileen Davidson, who plays his on-screen wife. This project highlights his successful return to acting and writing, merging his Hollywood roots with his passion for gambling.
The New Competitive Focus: Professional Pickleball
In a surprising but fitting twist for a former tennis pro, Van Patten has shifted his athletic focus to the rapidly growing sport of professional pickleball. He has embraced the sport, finding a new competitive outlet that allows him to utilize his decades of racket-sport experience. This move is a testament to his enduring athletic spirit and his willingness to engage with the latest trends in competitive sports.
Continued WPT and Media Presence
Van Patten remains deeply involved with the World Poker Tour, with his profile on the WPT website confirming his ongoing role as of the 2025 copyright date. He also maintains an active blog where he shares personal stories, inspiration, and thoughts on life, travel, and growth, often referencing his partner, Coco, and his experiences, including reflections on the new year into 2025. His commitment to the WPT and his personal media projects ensure that his voice and unique perspective continue to reach a wide audience globally.
Vincent Van Patten’s life story—from a child actor on the set of a Disney film to a Top 30 ATP tennis player, and finally to the iconic voice of the World Poker Tour—is a rare example of a truly successful triple-threat career. His latest ventures in film and pickleball underscore his legacy as a restless, talented, and highly adaptable entertainer and competitor.
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