Phil Laak has worked for many years in the gambling industry, first as a sports bet broker, then as a market speculator and then as a Real Estate investor. Laak is from Dublin, Ireland; he was born there in 1972 and started playing poker when he was 27, in 1999. From 99 to 2003 he played in eight tournaments. He was in the main event of World Poker Tour for 3 years in a row and he won an invitation to the 2004 event.
He has earned the nickname "The Unabomber", because of his dressing style, sunglasses with hooded sweatshirts. He has made a name for himself at the poker table thanks to his nickname and because of his strange behavior. Many fans debate upon his behavior is funny or unpleasant.
He prepares himself mentally before each game and considers that it gives him an advantage towards the other players. Because of his personality he has been named the host of E! Hollywood Hold'em, a show that presents the lives of professional poker players.
He lives in Los Angeles, California and he is mentoring Jennifer Tilly, a movie star and a poker player. He also has a degree in mechanical engineering.
