A massive $24 million (approximately $23.7–$24M in trades) was wagered on the prediction market Kalshi for whether actor and die-hard New England Patriots fan Mark Wahlberg would attend Super Bowl LX (Seahawks vs. Patriots, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California).
This amount exceeded the combined bets on 31 other celebrities and politicians—including Donald Trump ($4.6 million, the runner-up)—making it the most heavily traded celebrity attendance prop by far.
Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots fan and actor Mark Wahlberg in attendance before Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots fan and actor Mark Wahlberg in attendance before Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Controversy Surrounds $24 Million in Super Bowl Bets on Mark Wahlberg’s Attendance: Alleged “Insider” Tip from Daughter Sparks Debate
The Alleged “Insider Information” Controversy:
The frenzy was reportedly fueled by a viral rumor originating from Wahlberg’s eldest daughter, Ella Wahlberg (a student at Clemson University and member of a sorority). Social media users and TikTok videos claimed Ella told friends or fraternity members that her father planned to attend, encouraging bets on “Yes.”
TikTok user “theinternmason” posted a video alleging a person close to Ella shared that Mark would be there, leading some to bet heavily.
The rumor spread through college campuses, sororities, and fraternities, driving up “Yes” bets and inflating the market volume.
This post fueled accusations of “insider information” misuse, with some online calling it unfair or manipulative since it allegedly came from a family member. However:
No evidence suggests Ella had official or privileged knowledge beyond family discussions.
Kalshi is a prediction market (not traditional sports betting), allowing trades on event outcomes like celebrity attendance.
The platform’s rules prohibit insider trading, but enforcement relies on self-reporting and public info. No formal investigation or violation has been reported by Kalshi or regulators.
Critics labeled the situation “controversial” due to the rumor’s impact on betting decisions, while others dismissed it as harmless speculation typical of social media hype. The market ultimately settled correctly as “No,” so “Yes” bettors lost out.
Broader Betting Context for Super Bowl LX
Kalshi processed over $1 billion in total trades during Super Bowl 60 week, boosted by investor Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Celebrity attendance markets were popular, with other names like Kendall Jenner, Drake, and Donald Trump drawing bets (some reportedly $1M+ on specific props).
Early odds for Super Bowl 61 (2027 in Los Angeles) already feature favorites like Miley Cyrus and Morgan Wallen to perform halftime show.
The Wahlberg rumor highlights how social media whispers can drive massive action on prediction platforms, even for non-game outcomes. Mark Wahlberg, a vocal Patriots superfan, has attended past Super Bowls but skipped this one—possibly due to scheduling, the Patriots’ matchup, or other reasons.
No legal or regulatory action has been reported against Ella, Mark, or Kalshi. The story remains a quirky footnote in Super Bowl betting lore. What do you think—fair game rumor, or should prediction markets crack down harder? Share your take below!
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