Say goodbye to Wayne Gretzky, famous actors and social media influencers when it comes to advertising online gambling on TV or radio in Ontario. A new law that came into effect Wednesday bans them from being spokespeople. The changes were made to protect children and those who may have an addiction to wagering.
 
The betting sites are still up – they can just no longer use famous names and faces to try to lure in customers.
 
"As of Feb. 28, no active or retired athletes may be used in advertising and marketing for Internet Gaming in Ontario, with the exception of advocating for responsible gambling practices.
 
The same rules apply to the use of celebrities, role models, social media influencers, entertainers, cartoon figures and symbols who would “likely be expected to appeal to minors.”

Unfortunately, there are no rules saying commercials for these sites still can't be run, so you'll likely continue to see them ad nauseam on every sporting event.
 
Ontario ban on use of celebrities in gambling ads begins today