The Hollywood Godfather Podcast

Kirk Kerkorian: Master of the Vegas Universe

September 2, 2026·46 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

On the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, Gianni, Patrick and Meghan continue their mentor series by profiling Kirk Kerkorian, described as a self-made billionaire with no mob ties who loved gambling and reshaped Las Vegas through land deals and mega-hotels. They recount Kerkorian’s early life as a pilot ferrying planes to Scotland, his purchase and profitable sale of Trans International Airlines, his leasing land for Caesars, and building the International Hotel in 1969 with Barbra Streisand and Elvis Presley as early headliners, plus later ventures including MGM, Columbia Pictures, and attempted auto-industry takeovers. Russo shares personal stories of Kerkorian’s mentorship, Vegas licensing and zoning battles, and the rapid reopening after the MGM Grand fire. A sponsor message follows, then a mailbag covers magician Jimmy Grippo, Sinatra arranging a Happy Days cast appearance, Russo’s Vatican courier work, and a brief discussion of personal sayings.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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