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Entertainment • Actor

Vince Van Patten

Vince Van Patten is an American actor, former professional tennis player, and poker commentator.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Vince Van Patten is an American actor, former professional tennis player, and poker commentator. He is best known for acting roles in film and television and for his long-running commentary work with the World Poker Tour. He was born in Bellerose, New York, on October 17, 1957.

Early life

Vincent Van Patten was born in Bellerose, New York, in 1957. He grew up in a show-business family as the son of actor Dick Van Patten.

Acting career

Van Patten acted in film and television from a young age and later appeared in productions including Rock 'n' Roll High School and Hell Night. Sources also describe him as a writer, producer, and director.

Tennis career

He played professional tennis before returning to entertainment work. Coverage notes that he reached a top-25 ATP singles ranking and won the ATP Rookie of the Year award in 1979.

Poker broadcasting

Van Patten became a commentator for the World Poker Tour and is closely associated with the brand. Poker-focused sources state that he began broadcasting in the early 2000s and worked alongside Mike Sexton.

Key facts

  • Vince Van Patten began as a child actor and later worked in film and television.
  • He had a professional tennis career, achieving a top-25 ATP ranking and winning Rookie of the Year in 1979.
  • He defeated John McEnroe in a tournament in 1981.
  • He gained widespread recognition as a commentator for the World Poker Tour starting in the early 2000s.
  • His father was actor Dick Van Patten.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Vince Van Patten?
He is an American actor, former professional tennis player, and poker commentator best known for his work with the World Poker Tour.
When was Vince Van Patten born?
He was born on October 17, 1957.
What is Vince Van Patten known for?
He is known for acting in film and television, playing professional tennis, and commentating on the World Poker Tour.
Who is Vince Van Patten's father?
His father was actor Dick Van Patten.
Is Vince Van Patten married?
IMDb lists him as married to Eileen Davidson since 2003 and previously married to Betsy Russell.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vincent_Van_Patten
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, and core identity as actor, former tennis player, and World Poker Tour commentator.
  2. Sports Illustrated — https://www.si.com/tennis/2019/10/03/vince-van-patten-actor-former-tennis-player-beyond-the-baseline-podcast
    Supports: Professional tennis background, ATP ranking details, and later acting/commentary roles.
  3. PokerNews — https://www.pokernews.com/poker-players/vince-van-patten/
    Supports: World Poker Tour commentary career and association with Mike Sexton.
  4. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0887701/
    Supports: Birthplace, occupations, marriage information, and selected acting credits.
  5. Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/arts/educational-magazines/van-patten-vince-1957
    Supports: Overview of career in acting, tennis, and poker commentary; family background.