Poker - Popularity Explosion

Gone are the days when poker was played in back rooms by a handful of regular players. Now it seems as if you can't turn on the television without seeing coverage of a poker tournament or instructional show. The media has jumped on the poker band wagon, fueling its popularity.Poker, particularly Texas Hold-'em style, is broadcast on major networks such as Bravo, ESPN and The Travel Channel. The Travel Channel reports that their World Series of Poker shows are among the highest rated in their lineup.There are World Championship games, tournaments and even a show where all the players are celebrities (regardless of their poker skills). The shows are hosted by current poker players, many of whom are very successful at their profession. The media coverage has turned many of these players into mini celebrities in their own right.

One thing that is appealing to television viewers is that poker is relatively easy to learn. Most of the televisions shows have a primer at the beginning, explaining the different hands and betting procedures. So, in essence, a novice could sit down at a table and begin to play. Which is not to say they will do very well! A common saying with poker is "5 minutes to learn, a lifetime to master".