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Jeremy Kaufman, a well-known recreational high-stakes poker player and Chicago-based real estate investor, has died unexpectedly at the age of 56. He leaves behind three teenage children, a thriving real estate business, and a wide circle of friends within the poker world.
News of his passing was shared by Ryan Feldman, co-founder of Hustler Casino Live, who described Kaufman as “the life of the party” and said he was the most beloved member of their poker group. Feldman first became close with Kaufman during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Feldman also praised Kaufman’s demeanor at the table, noting that he never berated opponents or complained about bad beats, regardless of the pot size. He was remembered for losing gracefully, always maintaining a positive attitude even when the cards weren’t in his favor.
Kaufman gained wider recognition in the poker community in 2017 after appearing on Poker Night in America, where he competed as an amateur against professionals like Shaun Deeb and Doug Polk. One standout moment saw Kaufman and Polk agree to a $42,000 ten-card stud flip, a hand later shared on YouTube.
In recent years, Kaufman continued to make appearances on Hustler Casino Live and played twice in 2026 on Poker at the Lodge. He was a familiar face in Los Angeles’ high-stakes private poker scene.
Outside of poker, Kaufman served as CEO of Kaufman Jacobs, LLC, a boutique real estate private equity firm. Mike Matusow, who taught him to play poker, was among those who considered him a close friend.
