William Klein

Bill Klein is a retired American businessman and high-stakes recreational poker player associated with Laguna Hills, California. Known to viewers of High Stakes Poker and Hustler Casino Live, he established his career in manufacturing rather than as a professional poker player.

Before retirement, Klein owned a manufacturing business supplying grout and thinset to retailers including Home Depot, with 14 plants and approximately 1,400 employees. A throat-cancer survivor, he sold the business and retired following his diagnosis, making more room in his life for golf and poker.

Philanthropy is central to Klein’s approach to poker: he is known for donating his poker proceeds to charity and matching his losses with charitable donations. His family’s charitable priorities include children and the Orange County community, with causes such as the Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding and the Orangewood Foundation, which supports foster youth.

Klein first played poker in home games with friends and family, and golf remains an important part of his retirement. He also shares an interest in hockey with Daniel Negreanu, who has spoken warmly about their conversations about the Anaheim Ducks and described Klein as one of his favorite people.